Interaction of antibodies to synthetic peptides of proNGF with in vitro synthesized NGF precursors

Sera raised against three synthetic peptides that reproduce sequences of the pro-nerve growth factor (proNGF) protein were tested in immunoprecipitation experiments using in vitro translation products of SP6-directed NGF mRNA in a rabbit reticulocyte lysate. The interaction of these antibodies with bacterially synthesized chimeric preproNGF was also examined. Digestion of the translation products by the gamma-subunit generated the 22 and 18 kDa intermediates. A predominant 13 kDa intermediate was obtained after digestion of translation products in wheat germ extract. This is shown to be the N-terminal peptide by immunoprecipitation with an anti-peptide serum. These antibodies may be used to detect NGF precursor cleavage products in vivo.