The discovery of NGF marked a significant milestone in understanding the development and maintenance of the nervous system. Initially, NGF was characterized for its role in the sensory and autonomic nervous systems. Over time, its importance was recognized in the central nervous system, endocrine system, and immune system . NGF is essential for the development and phenotypic maintenance of neurons in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and for the functional integrity of cholinergic neurons in the central nervous system (CNS) .
NGF plays a crucial role in both the development and adulthood of neurons. It ensures the maintenance of phenotypic and functional characteristics of several populations of neurons as well as immune cells . The mature, active form of NGF is derived from the proteolytic cleavage of a precursor form known as ProNGF, which has both pro-apoptotic and neurotrophic properties .
Recent advances in the production and scientific knowledge of recombinant NGF have enabled its clinical development. In 2018, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved cenegermin-bkbj, a recombinant human NGF, for the treatment of all stages of neurotrophic keratitis . This approval marked a significant step forward in the therapeutic application of NGF, highlighting its potential beyond the nervous system.
The translational and clinical research on NGF has expanded the spectrum of diseases that could benefit from NGF treatment. This includes potential applications in Alzheimer’s disease, peripheral neuropathies, ocular and skin diseases, gliomas, traumatic brain injuries, vascular and immune diseases . Innovative delivery strategies and additional pathologies to be treated are also being explored, offering promising avenues for future research and therapeutic development .