noun
NGF
en-jee-EF
NGF (noun) means a protein that keeps certain nerve cells alive, encourages them to grow and directs the sprouting of their fibres; short for nerve growth factor. Example: “Levels of NGF rise sharply at the site of an injury.”
noun
1
technical A protein that keeps certain nerve cells alive, encourages them to grow and directs the sprouting of their fibres; short for nerve growth factor.
"Levels of NGF rise sharply at the site of an injury."
"The lab studies how NGF influences pain signalling in the skin."
2
marketing In consumer products and cosmetics marketing, an ingredient or treatment claimed to mimic or stimulate nerve growth factor.
"The serum is sold on an NGF claim that has little clinical backing."
How to use NGF
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA natural substance in the body that helps nerve cells grow and stay alive.
When to use it
Almost always written as the initialism in scientific and medical writing; spell it out on first use for a general audience.
Easily confused with
BDNF
EGF
VEGF
Common pairings
NGF signalling
anti-NGF therapy
NGF receptor
serum NGF levels
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Levels of _____ rise sharply at the site of an injury.
Etymology
An initialism of nerve growth factor.
Synonyms
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nerve growth factor
neurotrophin
Related words
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.
What is the meaning of NGF?
"NGF" (noun) means a protein that keeps certain nerve cells alive, encourages them to grow and directs the sprouting of their fibres; short for nerve growth factor.
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