Nerve growth factor and its receptors in tumors of nervous system

Nerve growth factor (NGF) and its high affinity receptor tyrosine kinase (TrkA)are indis-pensable for the development of nervous system. Latest researches reveal that over-expression of NGF and TrkA is related to better outcome in neuroblastoma and medulloblastoma. While in glioma, the over-expression and nuclear translocation of NGF and TrkA are indicators of malignant degree. Study of the expression and sub-cel-lular cocalization of NGF and TrkA can provide new way for the diagnosis and therapy of nervous system tumors. Key words: Nerve growth factor;  Receptors,nerve growth factor;  Neoplasms,neuroepithelial