DNA encoding neurotrophic growth factors

摘要

Neurotrophic growth factor proteins isolated from novel clonal cell lines grown in culture are mitogenic for fibroblasts and glial cells; some promote nerve cell survival and are prospectively useful in treating diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's which result in cell death in the nervous system, as well as in treating patients prone to epileptic seizures and patients suffering from trauma to the CNS. Certain of these proteins may be useful in nerve regeneration as well as in treating such diseases and injuries. Some are particularly useful in promoting lung development. These proteins are also useful in methods of treating a patient to promote nerve cell regeneration in degenerative eye diseases. The proteins can be topically applied in suitable compositions for wound-healing applications, and they can be administered parenterally to promote lung development and to treat patients afflicted with nerve damage and/or nerve disease.