Abstract
Neurotrophins are a family of growth factors that influence proliferation, differentiation, survival, repair, and death of neuronal and nonneuronal cells. In addition to their established functions during development, these signaling polypeptides also mediate higher-order functions such as learning, memory, and behavior. As critical players in neuronal survival, structure, and plasticity, alterations in neurotrophin signaling are implicated in various neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. The precise effects of neurotrophins depend on their regulation and availability, expression and affinity states to their receptors, and activation of downstream cell signaling pathways. This chapter reviews the physiological significance of neurotrophin signaling in the developing and mature nervous system as well as disorders that may arise from their deficiency.
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