Neurofilaments (NF) are intermediate filaments with a diameter of 10 nm found in neurons. They are a major component of the neuronal cytoskeleton, and are believed to function primarily to provide structural support for the axon and to regulate axon diameter.

The three major neurofilament subunits (NF-L, NF-M and NF-H) were discovered from studies of axonal transport. Proteins are synthesized within the cell body, and hence they must travel along the axon to reach their final destination. The names given to the three major neurofilament subunits are based upon the apparent M.W. of the mammalian subunits on SDS-PAGE:

NF-L, the light or lowest runs at 68-70 kDa, forms the back-bone of the Nf heteropolymer and can self-assemble. Mutations in the NfL gene have been associated with Charcot-Marie Tooth disease

NF-M, the medium or middle runs at about 145-160 kDa, is important for the radial axonal growth. One mutation in the NfM gene has been associated with Parkinsons disease.

NF-H, the heavy or highest runs at 200-220 kDa, is important for protein-protein interaction which is regulated locally in the axon by phosphorylation. Mutations in the NfH gene have been associated with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) [Reviewed by Axel Petzold]

ARG30011 Neurofilament Duos (NF-H, NF-L), including antibodies react two of the neurofilament, NF-H and NF-L, could be used as markers for differentiated neuron or in neuronal disease study.