NGF
2 synonyms for NGF, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A protein that keeps certain nerve cells alive, encourages them to grow and directs the sprouting of their fibres; short for nerve growth factor.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
nerve growth factor
neurotrophin
How to use NGF
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
NGF signalling
anti-NGF therapy
NGF receptor
serum NGF levels
Almost always written as the initialism in scientific and medical writing; spell it out on first use for a general audience.
Etymology
An initialism of nerve growth factor.
Full origin of NGF →Frequently asked questions
What does NGF stand for?
Nerve growth factor. It is one of a family of proteins called neurotrophins, which support the survival and growth of nerve cells.
What is the difference between NGF and BDNF?
Both are neurotrophins, but they act on different populations of neurons. NGF mainly supports sensory and sympathetic neurons in the peripheral nervous system, while BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) acts more widely in the brain and is associated with learning and memory.
Is NGF linked to pain?
Yes. NGF sensitises pain-carrying nerve fibres, and drugs that block it have been trialled as painkillers for conditions such as osteoarthritis.
