NGFR Antibody
Description
Overview of NGFR Antibody
Nerve Growth Factor Receptor (NGFR), also known as p75 or CD271, is a transmembrane glycoprotein belonging to the tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) superfamily. It binds neurotrophins like NGF, BDNF, and NT-3/4 with low affinity, regulating neuronal survival, apoptosis, and immune responses . NGFR antibodies are monoclonal or polyclonal reagents designed to detect or modulate this receptor in research, diagnostics, or therapeutic contexts.
Functional Roles of NGFR
NGFR modulates diverse biological processes:
Applications of NGFR Antibodies
NGFR antibodies are utilized in:
Diagnostic and Research Tools
Therapeutic Strategies
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CAR T-cell selection: NGFR-derived hinges (N3/N4) enable efficient enrichment of CAR T cells against hematological malignancies .
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Immune modulation: Targeting NGFR in melanoma may reverse therapy resistance by eliminating a drug-refractory subpopulation .
Immune Regulation
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Germinal center dysfunction: Ngfr knockout mice exhibit spontaneous germinal centers, impaired antibody production, and autoantibody spikes .
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Autoimmunity: Ngfr deficiency in Bcl2 transgenic mice increases autoantibody levels and accelerates mortality .
Cancer Biology
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Melanoma resistance: High NGFR expression correlates with poor response to BRAF/MEK inhibitors and checkpoint immunotherapies .
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Tumor suppression: NGFR acts as a tumor suppressor in prostate and breast cancers, negatively regulating cell proliferation .
Neurological Disorders
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Alzheimer’s disease: Ngfr overexpression in astroglia reduces amyloid-β and phosphorylated tau, alleviating AD pathology .
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Neurogenesis: Ngfr signaling suppresses Lcn2 expression, promoting neurogenic astroglia in the hippocampus .
Comparative Analysis of NGFR Antibodies
Product Specs
Constituents: 50% Glycerol, 0.01M PBS, pH 7.4
Target Background
- Research findings demonstrate that cells exhibiting in vitro characteristics of adipose-derived stromal cells (ASCs) can be derived from both CD271(+) and CD271(-) stromal populations within human adipose tissue. Moreover, gene expression profiling and in situ localization analyses indicate that the CD271(+) population exhibits a pericytic phenotype. PMID: 29125884
- The loss of epidermal CD271(+) keratinocytes appears to be a necessary event for the development of melanoma. PMID: 29678478
- The cleaved intracellular domain of CD271 controls proliferation, while the interaction of CD271 with the neurotrophin receptor Trk-A modulates cell adhesiveness by dynamically regulating a set of cholesterol synthesis genes relevant for patient survival. PMID: 29215016
- Results indicate that glioma cells overexpressing p75NTR demonstrate distinct characteristics of tumor-initiating cells, including neurosphere formation, enhanced colony proliferation, and resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. PMID: 30194166
- Our findings show good intra-class correlation in CD271 + MSC score among individual pathologists, with excellent overall performance by the group. Prospective studies evaluating CD271 + MSC density are necessary to confirm its diagnostic and prognostic utility. PMID: 27808583
- High p75(NTR) expression is associated with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. PMID: 28534989
- Collectively, CD271 initiates tumor formation by increasing cell proliferation capacity through CDKN1C suppression and ERK-signaling activation, and by accelerating the migration signaling pathway in hypopharyngeal cancer. PMID: 27469492
- This study demonstrates that the p75 pan-neurotrophin receptor is upregulated in nerve fibers and inflammatory cells within the local tissue in inflammatory pain. PMID: 27251195
- Dermal CD271+ cells have been shown to be closely associated with wound healing. PMID: 28127619
- p75NTR+ cells isolated from tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) cell lines exhibit characteristics of cancer stem cells, suggesting that p75NTR could serve as a useful surface marker for identifying TSCC stem cells. PMID: 28447720
- This study provides evidence of variation in plasmatic p75NTR receptor expression during the progression of dementia. PMID: 27802234
- p75(NTR) was overexpressed in anaplastic thyroid cancers compared to papillary and follicular subtypes. PMID: 29037860
- p75NTR, primarily expressed in tumor tissues, was significantly associated with higher Fuhrman grade in multivariate analysis. These data highlight, for the first time, a significant role for p75NTR in renal cancer and indicate a potential novel target therapy for renal cell carcinoma. PMID: 27120782
- This study unveils nerve growth factor receptor (NGFR, p75NTR or CD271) as a novel p53 inactivator. p53 activates NGFR transcription, while NGFR inactivates p53 by promoting its MDM2-mediated ubiquitin-dependent proteolysis and by directly binding to its central DNA binding domain, thereby preventing its DNA-binding activity. PMID: 27282385
- Data suggest that p75NTR functions as a central regulator of glioma tumorigenesis, the tumor microenvironment, and tumor invasiveness. p75NTR may contribute to the drug resistance of glioma. [REVIEW] PMID: 28215302
- These results demonstrate that EpCAM + p75NTR+ CTC count serves as a more accurate diagnostic marker than EpCAM+ CTC count, suggesting the highly metastatic potential of CTCs expressing p75NTR. PMID: 28560678
- Co-immunoprecipitation and biochemical fractionation data suggest that the p75 TM domain stimulates TrkB phosphorylation at the cell membrane. PMID: 28821608
- These findings suggest that LNGFR(+)THY-1(+) cells identified following NCLC induction from ESCs/iPSCs share similar potentials with multipotent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). PMID: 27178356
- The results indicate that CD271 loss is critical for melanoma progression and metastasis. PMID: 27328305
- For Fat3, the Kif5-ID is regulated by alternative splicing, and the timecourse of splicing suggests that the distribution of Fat3 may switch between early and later stages of retinal development. In contrast, P75NTR binding to Kif5B is enhanced by tyrosine phosphorylation, potentially allowing for dynamic regulation on a more rapid timescale. PMID: 27788242
- p75(NTR) and NIX may play crucial roles in intracerebral hemorrhage-induced neuronal apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo. PMID: 27726026
- The results of this study suggest that p75(+) human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSC) may represent a subpopulation with greater neurogenic potential within hDPSCs. PMID: 27469433
- This research introduces hsa-miR-939 as a novel key regulator of NGFR expression, and its involvement in cell death/survival processes is suggested. PMID: 28229962
- The receptors p75 and TrkB are more highly expressed in deep infiltrating endometriosis than in peritoneal tissues. PMID: 27519317
- The disappearance of the superiority in tumorigenicity in vitro and vivo in CD271+ osteosarcoma (OS) cells suggests that autophagy contributes to the stem-like features of CD271+ OS cancer stem cells (CSCs). Inhibition of autophagy represents a promising strategy for targeting CSCs in OS therapy. PMID: 27863492
- hA17-29 aggregate toxicity appears to be mediated by the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) and p75-NGFR receptors. PMID: 27804051
- Results revealed that most p75NTR-positive cells were in a mitotically quiescent state, while the majority of p75NTR-negative cells were actively proliferating in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. PMID: 26984177
- Data show that under reducing conditions, the p75 neurotrophin receptor transmembrane (TM) domain (p75-TM-WT) exists in a monomer-dimer equilibrium with the cysteine (Cys 257) residue located on the dimer interface. PMID: 27056327
- p75NTR and cellular retinoic acid binding protein 1 (CRABP1) modulate the effect of fenretinide on neuroblastoma cells. PMID: 26843908
- This study identifies a novel signaling pathway in hepatocytes triggered by ligand-activated p75NTR, which, via p38 MAPK and caspase-3, mediates the activation of sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP2). This pathway potentially regulates low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDLRs) and lipid uptake, particularly after injury or during tissue inflammation accompanied by an increased production of growth factors, including NGF and pro-NGF. PMID: 26984409
- Studies indicate that the neurotrophin receptor p75(NTR) mediates Huntington's disease-associated synaptic and memory dysfunction. PMID: 26700963
- The percentage of p75NTR+ peripheral blood mononuclear cells increased in early stages of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (I-II), while TrKA+ peripheral blood mononuclear cells increased in late stages (III-IV). PMID: 26408608
- High p75NTR expression is associated with esophageal cancer. PMID: 26897248
- RIP2 and RhoGDI bind to the p75(NTR) death domain at partially overlapping epitopes with over 100-fold difference in affinity, revealing the mechanism by which RIP2 recruitment displaces RhoGDI upon ligand binding. PMID: 26646181
- Preventing phosphorylation of p75(NTR) through pharmacological inhibition of protein kinase A (PKA), or by a mutational strategy, cripples p75(NTR)-mediated glioma invasion. This results in serine phosphorylation within the C-terminal PDZ-binding motif (SPV) of p75(NTR). PMID: 26119933
- NGFR Ser205Leu polymorphism modulates the autonomic vagal outflow to the heart, particularly in men. PMID: 26278479
- Findings show no association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in NTRK2 and NGFR genes with completed suicide in the Slovenian population. PMID: 26462037
- This study investigates the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1alpha) and CD271 in melanomas at different phases of progression, as evaluated by histology and reflectance confocal microscopy. PMID: 25739328
- Among 30 studies investigating BDNF/TRKB/P75NTR polymorphisms and antidepressant efficacy in depressed patients, 15 studies have yielded positive results. [REVIEW] PMID: 26122862
- The ATF4/p75NTR/IL-8 signaling pathway may play a significant role in the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) induced by SFO. PMID: 24905361
- Data suggest that the p75 neurotrophin receptor p75(NTR) could be a potential therapeutic target for retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) hypoxia or oxidative stress diseases. PMID: 25200140
- p75(NTR) and alpha9 integrin subunit are not closely associated through their cytoplasmic domains, most likely due to molecular interference with other cytoplasmic proteins such as paxillin. PMID: 25748048
- Activation of the p75NTR receptor identified that the receptor predominantly assembles as a trimer in brain tissue. PMID: 26311773
- CD271 expression is associated with stage and lymph node metastasis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma specimens. Epigenetic regulation of CD271 is linked to chemoresistance and metastatic capacity in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. PMID: 25351876
- p75NGFR is a candidate tumor suppressor and exhibits independent prognostic potential in colorectal cancer. PMID: 25244921
- Case Report: strong p75 staining in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. PMID: 25321086
- Data indicate that leucine-rich repeat neuronal protein 1 (LINGO-1) is intracellular and competes with Nogo-66 receptor (NgR) for binding to p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR). PMID: 25666623
- Therefore, the 12 selected SNPs may act as tag SNPs for the entire p75NTR gene in the Chinese Han population. PMID: 25227100
- Data strongly suggest that CD271 is a crucial determinant of stem-like properties of melanoma cells, such as colony-formation and tumorigenicity. PMID: 24799129
- Data are the first to demonstrate that CD271 more specifically identifies the tumor-initiating cell (TIC) subpopulation within the CD44+ compartment in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN), and that this receptor is a functionally active and targetable molecule. PMID: 25149537
Q&A
What is NGFR and what alternative nomenclature exists in scientific literature?
NGFR (Nerve Growth Factor Receptor) is a protein encoded by the NGFR gene in humans that functions as a receptor for neurotrophins. In scientific literature, NGFR is known by several alternative names:
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CD271
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p75(NTR) or p75NTR (p75 Neurotrophin Receptor)
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TNFRSF16 (Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily Member 16)
The protein has a molecular weight of approximately 45.2 kilodaltons and plays critical roles in neuronal development, survival, and apoptosis . Understanding this nomenclature is essential when searching literature or designing experiments involving this target.
Which cell types can be identified using NGFR antibodies?
NGFR antibodies are valuable markers for identifying multiple specialized cell populations:
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Respiratory suprabasal cells
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Tracheobronchial tree basal epithelial cells
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Airway submucosal gland duct basal cells
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Epithelium lobular bronchiole basal cells
In developmental biology and regenerative medicine research, NGFR antibodies are particularly valuable for identifying and isolating neural crest cells differentiated from human embryonic stem cells .
What species reactivity should I consider when selecting an NGFR antibody?
When selecting an NGFR antibody, carefully consider the target species for your research:
| Species Available | Common Antibody Types | Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Human (Hu) | Monoclonal and polyclonal | WB, ELISA, FCM, IHC-p, IF, ICC |
| Mouse (Ms) | Monoclonal and polyclonal | WB, IHC, IF |
| Rat (Rt) | Polyclonal | WB, IHC |
| Non-human primates (NHPr) | Selected monoclonals | IHC, FCM |
Based on gene similarity, NGFR orthologs exist in canine, porcine, monkey, mouse, and rat models, providing options for comparative and translational research . Verify cross-reactivity data before using an antibody in a non-validated species, as epitope conservation varies across species.
What are the major applications of NGFR antibodies in research protocols?
NGFR antibodies have been validated for multiple research applications:
| Application | Common Usage | Typical Dilutions |
|---|---|---|
| Western Blot (WB) | Protein expression analysis | 1:500-1:2000 |
| Immunohistochemistry (IHC-p) | Tissue localization | 1:100-1:500 |
| Flow Cytometry (FCM) | Cell surface detection | 1:50-1:200 |
| Immunofluorescence (IF) | Subcellular localization | 1:100-1:500 |
| Immunocytochemistry (ICC) | Cellular localization | 1:100-1:500 |
| Immunoprecipitation (IP) | Protein-protein interactions | 1:50-1:200 |
| ELISA | Quantitative detection | 1:1000-1:5000 |
Many researchers employ NGFR antibodies in immunocytochemistry to validate the specificity of neural crest cells differentiated from human embryonic stem cells . The optimal application depends on your specific research question and experimental system.
How can I validate the specificity of NGFR antibodies for my experimental model?
Validating NGFR antibody specificity is critical for reliable results. A comprehensive validation strategy includes:
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Positive and negative controls: Use tissues or cell lines with known NGFR expression levels. Neural crest-derived cells offer excellent positive controls .
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Antibody comparison: Compare staining patterns from multiple antibody clones targeting different NGFR epitopes.
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Knockout/knockdown validation: If possible, use NGFR knockout/knockdown samples to confirm specificity.
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Immunocytochemical validation: As demonstrated in neural crest cell research, compare staining between cell populations with varying NGFR expression levels, such as undifferentiated human embryonic stem cells versus MACS-enriched neural crest cells .
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Pre-absorption controls: Pre-incubate the antibody with purified antigen before staining to block specific binding.
For validation in MACS sorting applications, test small-scale enrichment before conducting larger experiments to confirm both purity and yield of the isolated population.
What are optimal protocols for NGFR antibody-based cell isolation?
NGFR antibodies can be leveraged for isolating specific cell populations using magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) or fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). An optimized protocol includes:
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Cell preparation:
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Harvest cells (primary tissue or cultured cells)
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Create single-cell suspension (using appropriate tissue dissociation methods)
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Filter to remove clumps (40-70μm cell strainer)
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Count viable cells
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MACS selection optimization:
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Enrichment validation:
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Confirm purity by flow cytometry
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Validate functionality of isolated cells in downstream applications
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When optimizing MACS protocols for NGFR-based selection, consider that some NGFR antibody clones (such as ME20.4) recognize specific epitopes in the third and/or fourth CRD in the extracellular domain of NGFR . This epitope specificity is crucial for successful cell isolation.
How can NGFR antibodies be utilized in CAR T-cell research?
Recent advances have incorporated NGFR-derived segments into chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell designs, offering innovative applications:
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CAR detection and monitoring:
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Selection of modified T cells:
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Optimization considerations:
This application demonstrates the versatility of NGFR epitopes beyond traditional detection methods, with significant implications for adoptive cellular therapy.
What experimental considerations are important when using NGFR antibodies for neural regeneration research?
When investigating neural regeneration using NGFR antibodies, consider these methodological aspects:
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Tissue preparation:
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For peripheral nerve injury models, use appropriate fixation methods (4% paraformaldehyde is common)
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Consider tissue clearing techniques for whole-mount imaging
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For peripheral nerve sections, 10-20μm thickness is typically optimal
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Antibody selection:
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Multi-marker analysis:
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Combine NGFR antibodies with other neural crest markers for comprehensive characterization
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Use with markers of differentiation to assess maturation states
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Functional validation:
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Correlate NGFR expression with functional outcomes in nerve regeneration
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Consider using NGFR antibodies to isolate regenerative cell populations for transplantation studies
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Research has demonstrated that NGFR-expressing neural crest cells differentiated from human embryonic stem cells show promise as supporting cells for peripheral nerve repair , highlighting the clinical relevance of accurate NGFR detection in regenerative medicine studies.
What advanced troubleshooting strategies exist for problematic NGFR antibody staining?
When encountering challenges with NGFR antibody staining, implement these advanced troubleshooting approaches:
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Epitope masking issues:
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If standard antigen retrieval fails, test multiple methods (citrate, EDTA, enzymatic)
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Consider dual retrieval methods for formalin-fixed tissues
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For fresh tissues, optimize fixation time to prevent over-fixation
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Signal optimization:
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Implement signal amplification systems (tyramide signal amplification, polymer detection)
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Optimize antibody incubation time and temperature (4°C overnight versus 1-2 hours at room temperature)
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Test different detection systems (fluorescent versus chromogenic)
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Background reduction:
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Use species-specific blocking reagents
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Implement avidin/biotin blocking for biotin-based detection systems
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Consider tissue-specific autofluorescence quenching methods
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Validation strategies:
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Compare monoclonal versus polyclonal antibodies
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Test antibodies recognizing different NGFR domains
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Use fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) to confirm protein-protein interactions
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Technical considerations:
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For flow cytometry, optimize cell dissociation methods to preserve NGFR epitopes
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For Western blotting, test both reducing and non-reducing conditions
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For immunoprecipitation, compare different lysis buffers to maintain protein conformations
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These strategies go beyond basic protocol modifications to address complex technical challenges encountered in advanced NGFR antibody applications.
