VGF was initially identified as a rapidly regulated gene product in nerve growth factor-treated PC12 cells. This protein is synthesized in neurons in the central and peripheral nervous system as well as in the pituitary, adrenal medulla, endocrine cells of the stomach, and pancreatic beta cells. VGF is thought to be involved in organism energy balance and regulation of homeostasis as mice lacking this gene show deficits in these areas. More recent results suggest that VGF is upregulated by brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and can stimulate the proliferation of hippocampal progenitor cells and produce antidepressant-like behavioral effects, suggesting that this pathway may be a suitable target for therapeutic treatments.