Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) is a type III intermediate filament protein belonging to the intermediate filament protein family. The GFAP gene in humans encodes the GFAP protein. The gene is located on chromosome 17. Several CNS cell types that include ependymal cells and astrocytes express GFAP proteins during development. Other human cells, such as keratinocytes, Leydig cells, chondrocytes, and osteocytes, also express GFAP. GFAP, along with the other three non-epithelial cells belonging to the same protein family, regulates the functions and structure of the cytoskeleton. Although many studies use GFAP as a cell marker, we have still not completely understood its role in the body.
What is glial fibrillary acidic protein – It’s a small, soluble and extremely stable molecule that’s located within the cytoplasm of cells (not in their nuclei) and for this reason GFAP is also known as cytosolic protein. The GFAP production takes place not only in neurons, but also in all of the astrocytes, a family of glial cells belonging to the central nervous system. Their shape is round and compact, and they constantly communicate with neurons through short extensions called pseudopodia. This name derives from their resemblance to the amoeba dividing pseudopodia.
Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) is a type III intermediate filament protein belonging to the intermediate filament protein family. It is located on chromosome 17 and is expressed in the nervous system. Since GFAP is abundant in astrocytes, it has been used as a cell marker of astrocytic tumors. Many studies have linked the GFAP protein to mechanical strength of astrocyte cells, but we have still not completely understood this relationship.
BDNF effects stands for Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor. The brain-derived neurotrophic factor is a protein encoded by the BDNF gene in humans (see the human BDNF reference sequence). In general, it supports the survival of neurons in the central and peripheral nervous systems. BDNF functions as a neurotransmitter modulator and engages in neuronal plasticity.
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is a type of protein that supports the growth, survival, and differentiation of neurons in the peripheral and central nervous systems. Thus, BDNF is required for healthy brain development and function throughout life. This protein communicates between neurons so they function normally by moving messages into cells and signalling receptors. To know more about BDNF, you can search for ‘What is BDNF’ or ‘What is Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor’.
BDNF is an acronym for Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor, the substance that supports growth and maturation of neurons. Known as a multipurpose member, it has been found to support blood glucose metabolism, and maintenance of healthy blood-brain barrier function in humans. It promotes survival of certain nerve cells in the hippocampus, cerebellum, and cerebral cortex where most learning, memory, and higher thinking occur. The discovery that BDNF can exist outside the brain prompted its use as a biomarker for breast cancer and arthritis.
BDNF stands for Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor, a small protein (molecular weight: 12kDa) that plays a key role in the development and function of neurons in the brain. The BDNF gene, also known as the ‘Fighter Gene’, is a member of the nerve growth factor family. It contributes to survival, proliferation, and differentiation of neurons through formation of synapses by regulating its target neuron’s responsiveness to other factors (e.g., neurotransmitters such as glutamate).
