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Neurotrophin/Trk Family

The neurotrophin family is comprised of at least four proteins including NGF, BDNF, NT-3, and NT-4/5. These secreted cytokines are synthesized as prepropeptides that are proteolytically processed to generate active propeptides and mature protein homodimers. Mature NT-4 also forms heterodimers with BDNF or NT-3. Neurotrophins induce dimerization and activation of the Trk family of receptors and promote the development and survival of selected peripheral and CNS neurons.