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. 1986 Feb;83(3):817–821. doi: 10.1073/pnas.83.3.817

Development and regional expression of beta nerve growth factor messenger RNA and protein in the rat central nervous system.

S R Whittemore, T Ebendal, L Lärkfors, L Olson, A Seiger, I Strömberg, H Persson
PMCID: PMC322956  PMID: 3456170

Abstract

The presence of nerve growth factor (NGF) mRNA and protein in the rat central nervous system is documented. Blot-hybridization analysis showed an abundance of NGF mRNA in the hippocampus, cerebral cortex, and olfactory bulb. Enzyme immunoassay confirmed significant levels of a NGF-like protein in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex. Bioassay of a NGF-like immunoaffinity-purified protein from these regions was physiologically indistinguishable from NGF. Immunohistochemistry revealed a widespread distribution of NGF-like reactivity in the adult brain, preferentially in fiber tracts. NGF mRNA accumulation began at birth, with adult levels reached 3 weeks postnatally. Enzyme immunoassay detected the presence of a NGF-like protein in the embryonic rat brain. Postnatally, the level of NGF-like protein reached a maximum at 3 weeks. Additionally, a distinct fetal form of NGF may exist.

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