In this study, we investigated whether hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) and progenitors present in human cord blood can express nerve growth factor (NGF)-specific receptors, TrkA and p75. Our results showed a marked expression of TrkA and NGF in cord blood CD34 + cells. A gradient of TrkA and NGF expression exists and is highest in cord blood CD34 + cells, reduced in cord blood mononuclear cells (MNC) and minimal in mononuclear cells isolated from adult peripheral blood.Our findings suggest that NGF may play a role in the differentiation of hematopoietic progenitors and indicate a different requirement for NGF by immune cells, depending on their state of maturity.