CNTF is a polypeptide trophic factor, member of the alpha-helical cytokine superfamily1. It was initially purified from the chick eye on the basis of its ability to promote survival of E8 chick ciliary ganglion neurons in culture2. CNTF is synthesized by glia both in the CNS and PNS3 and it has been demonstrated that CNTF is ubiquitously distributed in neurons and glia throughout the rodent brain4. CNTF effects are mediated by a tripartite receptor complex consisting of two signal-transducing subunits (leukemia inhibitory factor receptor, gp130) and a CNTF-specific ligand-binding-subunit (CNTFR)5.
CNTF can support the survival of many different cell populations within the PNS and the CNS6. in vitro, CNTF promotes proliferation and neuronal specifications in hippocampal neurons. in vivo, it supports the viability of non-primate motor neurons7, CNTF induces sprouting of cholinergic motor neurons8 and delays neural degeneration in genetic models of motor neuron disease9. In addition, it is involved in the development stage of astrocytes and oligodendocytes10.
Alomone Labs is pleased to offer a highly specific antibody directed against an epitope of human CNTF. Anti-CNTF (#AG1166) antibody can be used in western blot and immunocytochemical applications, and has been designed to recognize CNTF from human, rat and mouse samples. In addition, Anti-CNTF specifically recognizes CNTF but not related cytokines.
