Neuronal growth-inhibitory factor (metallothionein-3): evaluation of the biological function of growth-inhibitory factor in the injured and neurodegenerative brain

FEBS J. 2010 Jul;277(14):2931-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1742-4658.2010.07718.x. Epub 2010 Jun 15.

Abstract

Neuronal growth-inhibitory factor, later renamed metallothionein-3, is one of four members of the mammalian metallothionein family. Metallothioneins are a family of ubiquitous, low-molecular-weight, cysteine-rich proteins. Although neuronal growth-inhibitory factor shares metal-binding and reactive oxygen species scavenging properties with the other metallothioneins, it displays several distinct biological properties. In this review, we examine the recent developments regarding the function of neuronal growth-inhibitory factor within the brain, particularly in response to brain injury or during neurodegenerative disease progression.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain Diseases / metabolism*
  • Brain Injuries / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Metallothionein 3
  • Nerve Tissue Proteins / metabolism*
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases / metabolism*

Substances

  • Metallothionein 3
  • Nerve Tissue Proteins