NGFβ (nerve growth factor β) is a protein involved in signal transduction, and expressed by multiple tissues such as placenta, urothelium and bladder smooth muscle cells. It is a neurotrophin and belongs to the NGF family.
NGFβ (nerve growth factor β) is essential for the differentiation and survival of neurons. It also plays a key role in the development and maintenance of nervous system. It is also involved in angiogenesis, and facilitates tumorigenesis such as, oral, breast and prostate cancers. It has potential as marker for the diagnosis of interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS) and overactive bladder (OAB), and might also aid in determining the therapy for the same. It might be involved in changes in placental function, as NGF signaling is influenced by antenatal depression and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) treatment.
