The functions of nerve growth factor and nerve growth factor receptor in wound healing

Abstract

Nerve growth factor (NGF) and nerve growth factor receptors (NGFRs) play important roles in tissue remodeling during the would healing process of the skin, oral and paranasal mucosa, and cornea. The interactions between NGF and NGFRs are influenced by or interact with a number of molecules in the tissue remodeling process, in which key niche components are varieties of growth factors and their receptors, including NGF and NGFR. In addition to those interactions mentioned above, cell-cell contacts as well as cell-matrix interactions have also been considered to promote wound healing events. The present review focuses on the pathophysiological roles of NGF and NGFR in saliva and salivary glands, and in tear and lacrimal glands under inflammatory and tissue remodeling conditions, as well as their expression profiles in various kinds of cells including mast cells, macrophages, lymphocytes, and those involved in angiogenesis. Finally, we describe how the expression modes of NGF and NGFR regulate the peripheral nerve fiber growth and stimulate wound healing or tissue remodeling in the organs or tissues mentioned above as well as in pressure wounds and diabetic skin lesions. Based on these lines of evidence, we emphasize that NGF and NGFR could represent new and powerful regimens for treatment of tissue injuries.

Comparison of Neurovascular Characteristics of Facial Skin in Patients After Primary and Revision Rhytidectomies

“…5, 6 Recent attention has also focused on the role of cutaneous nerve fibers in wound healing. 7, 8, 9 Substance P neuropeptide neurotransmitter and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) neurotransmitter, present in some non-myelinated nerve fibers, have a role in inflammation and burn wound healing, inducing vascular permeability and vasodilation as well as mast cell degranulation. 10 Likewise, neuronal processes in the skin are postulated to result in differentiation of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts via direct contact, thus allowing for collagen contraction and wound maturation 11 .…”

“…A variety of cellular components and markers are essential to this complex cascade, including platelets, neutrophils, fibroblasts, and growth factors . Recent attention has also focused on the role of cutaneous nerve fibers in wound healing . Substance P neuropeptide neurotransmitter and calcitonin gene-related peptide neurotransmitter, present in some nonmyelinated nerve fibers, have a role in inflammation and burn wound healing, inducing vascular permeability and vasodilation as well as mast cell degranulation .…”