CNTF got its name when it was discovered as a neurotrophic factor that supported ciliary neurons. R R

It is a protein, a polypeptide hormone, and a neurotrophic factor (like BDNF, NGF, GDNF, CDNF, and MANF). R R

It is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that is a potent survival factor for neurons and oligodendrocytes and may be relevant in reducing tissue destruction during inflammatory attacks. R

Receptors for CNTF have been found on retinal ganglion cells, Mueller cells, photo receptors and retinal pigment epithelial cells: R R R R

CNTF is expressed by glial cells of the spinal cord, atrocytes, Schwann cells, and skeletal muscles. R R R

CNTF has also been shown to be expressed by cells on the bone surface, and to reduce the activity of bone-forming cells (osteoblasts). R