Neurotrophic factors are very important for keeping our brain cells healthy and helping them live longer. These special proteins help brain cells develop, survive, and change, which can affect diseases that damage the brain.

Key Neurotrophic Factors

1. Nerve Growth Factor (NGF):

   • This factor is crucial for the survival and health of certain nerve cells called sympathetic and sensory neurons.
   • When there’s not enough NGF, it can lead to brain diseases. For example, people with Alzheimer's disease have about 30% less NGF.

2. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF):

   • BDNF helps nerve cells stay alive and encourages the growth of new nerve cells and connections between them.
   • Low levels of BDNF are linked to a higher risk of memory loss. Studies show that a 5% drop in BDNF can lead to a 10% increase in depression among older adults.

3. Neurotrophin-3 (NT-3):

   • This factor is key for building nerve connections in the brain.
   • NT-3 can make brain cells stronger and reduce damage by up to 40% in animal studies.

How They Work

• Preventing Cell Death: Neurotrophic factors can stop the process that leads to cell death, helping more cells survive.

• Boosting Learning and Memory: They support a process called long-term potentiation (LTP), which is important for learning and remembering things.

• Managing Inflammation: Neurotrophic factors help control inflammation in the brain that can lead to cell loss.

Conclusion

It’s important to understand how neurotrophic factors work. This knowledge can help us develop new treatments to keep our brain cells healthy and extend their lifespan, especially as we get older or face brain diseases.