A humanized monoclonal antibody directed against nerve growth factor (NGF), a modulator of nociceptor function, with potential analgesic activity. Tanezumab binds to NGF and prevents NGF binding to its high affinity, membrane-bound, catalytic receptor tropomyosin-related kinase A (TrkA), which is present on sympathetic and sensory neurons; reduced stimulation of TrkA by NGF inhibits the pain-transmission activities of these neurons. NGF, a neurotrophin, is critical to the growth and maintenance of sympathetic and sensory neurons. In addition, NGF may induce mast cells to release inflammatory proteins and may induce the upregulation of substance P and other pain-related peptides in sympathetic and sensory neurons. Upon neurotrophin binding, TrkA phosphorylates itself and members of the MAPK pathway, mediating the multiple neuronal effects of NGF. Check for active clinical trials using this agent. (NCI Thesaurus)
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