Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor (CNTF) is a polypeptide hormone and neurotrophic factor primarily studied for its role in the nervous system. It promotes neurotransmitter synthesis and neurite outgrowth in specific neural populations, including astrocytes . CNTF is a potent survival factor for neurons and oligodendrocytes, potentially reducing tissue destruction during inflammatory attacks .
CNTF was initially identified as a trophic factor for embryonic chick ciliary parasympathetic neurons in culture . The human CNTF gene is located on chromosome 11q12.1 . Recombinant human CNTF (rhCNTF), also known as Axokine, is a modified version with a 15 amino acid truncation of the C-terminus and two amino acid substitutions, making it more potent and stable than the native CNTF .