ABSTRACT
Neuritin is a new member of the neurotrophic factor family, whose gene is named cpg15 (candidate plasticity-related gene 15) and can be activated by neural activity or neurotrophins (NTs). Experiments show that neuritin is able to promote the growth and branching of neurites, and plays an important role in neuronal plasticity and neuronal regeneration. Recent studies have proved that neuritin is not only involved in the regulation of various physiological functions in the nervous system, but also related in angiogenesis and tumorigenesis. Here we review the mechanisms involved in cpg15 expression and regulation, biological effects of neuritin, and how neuritin plays its biological activities. The hot issues and difficulties in the study of neuritin are also discussed.