Description
Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor (CNTF) is a cytokine belonging to the Interleukin 6 (IL-6) family, which also includes IL-6, Oncostatin M, Leukemia Inhibitory Factor (LIF), and Cardiotrophin-1. Structurally, CNTF resembles a four-helix bundle composition, similar to the other members of the IL-6 family. The receptor for CNTF is composed of three parts: a gp130-like subunit common in the IL-6 receptor family, a LIF Receptor β subunit, and a CNTF specific α receptor subunit. Upon binding to the CNTF, the β subunit of the CNTF receptor will undergo tyrosine phosphorylation, and activate the intracellular JAK/STAT pathway. The main function of CNTF in vivo is to promote the differentiation and survival of a variety of neurons and glial cells, including sympathetic precursor cells and spinal motor neurons.