Nerve growth factor (NGF) and NGF receptors in mesenchymal stem/stromal cells: Impact on potential therapies

Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are promising for the treatment of degenerative diseases and traumatic injuries. However, MSC engraftment is not always successful and requires a strong comprehension of the cytokines and their receptors that mediate the biological behaviors of MSCs. The effects of nerve growth factor (NGF) and its two receptors, TrkA and p75NTR, on neural cells are well studied. Increasing evidence shows that NGF, TrkA, and p75NTR are also involved in various aspects of MSC function, including their survival, growth, differentiation, and angiogenesis. The regulatory effect of NGF on MSCs is thought to be achieved mainly through its binding to TrkA. p75NTR, another receptor of NGF, is regarded as a novel surface marker of MSCs. This review provides an overview of advances in understanding the roles of NGF and its receptors in MSCs as well as the effects of MSC-derived NGF on other cell types, which will provide new insight for the optimization of MSC-based therapy.

Automated summary

The nerve growth factor (NGF) and its receptors TrkA and p75NTR play important roles in various aspects of mesenchymal stem/stromal cell (MSC) function, including survival, growth, differentiation, and angiogenesis. The regulatory effect of NGF on MSCs is mainly achieved through binding to TrkA, while p75NTR is considered a novel surface marker of MSCs. This understanding provides new insights for optimizing MSC-based therapy.