Nerve growth factor (NGF), a target-derived factor for survival and maintenance of peripheral
and central neurons, has been implicated in inflammatory processes. Mast cells are the
principal effector cells in IgE-dependent hypersensitivity reactions, and also play a role in
diseases characterised by inflammation, including those of the nervous system like multiple
sclerosis. Mast cells are capable of synthesising and responding to NGF, although the
occurrence of other members of the NGF family of neurotrophins and their protein forms …