beta-NGF is a neurotrophic factor structurally related to BDNF, NT-3 and NT-4. These proteins belong to the cysteine-knot family of growth factors that assume stable dimeric structures. beta-NGF is a potent neurotrophic factor that signals through its receptor beta-NGFR, and plays a crucial role in the development and preservation of the sensory and sympathetic nervous systems. beta-NGF also acts as a growth and differentiation factor for B lymphocytes and enhances B-cell survival. Alternative Names: beta-NGF protein, NGF-beta protein, Nerve Growth factor protein