Neuron derived neurotrophic factor is a secreted protein that, in humans, is encoded by the NDNF gene, located on chromosome 4. This protein helps in the growth, survival, migration, and differentiation of neurons. To assist with migration, NDNF shows neuro-repulsive effects on GnRH neurons. Loss of function (LoF) in the NDNF gene has been shown to be a cause of a disease known as congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, which can have associated cleft lip and cleft palate. A preliminary study has shown that knock-down of ndnf reduces development of the ethmoid plate, which is homologous to the human palate.
