Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor

Glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor, also known as GDNF is a is_associated_with::protein that, in humans, is encoded by the GDNF is_associated_with::gene. GDNF is a small protein that potently promotes the survival of many types of is_associated_with::neurons.

Function
This gene encodes a highly conserved is_associated_with::neurotrophic factor. The recombinant form of this protein was shown to promote the survival and differentiation of is_associated_with::dopaminergic neurons in culture, and was able to prevent is_associated_with::apoptosis of motor neurons induced by is_associated_with::axotomy. The encoded protein is processed to a mature secreted form that exists as a homodimer. The mature form of the protein is a ligand for the product of the RET (rearranged during transfection) protooncogene. In addition to the transcript encoding GDNF, two additional alternative transcripts encoding distinct proteins, referred to as astrocyte-derived trophic factors, have also been described. Mutations in this gene may be associated with Hirschsprung's disease.

The most prominent feature of GDNF is its ability to support the survival of is_associated_with::dopaminergic and is_associated_with::motorneurons.

These neuronal populations die in the course of is_associated_with::Parkinson's disease and is_associated_with::amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). GDNF also regulates is_associated_with::kidney development and spermatogenesis, and it affects is_associated_with::alcohol consumption.

GDNF family of ligands (GFL)
GDNF was discovered in 1991, and is the first member of the is_associated_with::GDNF family of ligands (GFL) found.

Interactions
Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor has been shown to interact with GFRA2 and is_associated_with::GDNF family receptor alpha 1.

Potential as therapeutics
GDNF has regenerative properties for brain cells and showed potential as treatment for Parkinson's disease - monkeys with an induced form of Parkinson's disease showed less trembling when treated with the drug, and neuronal fibres grew in part of the human brain exposed to the drug. However progress to a treatment is hampered by the problem of delivering the drug to brain cells through the is_associated_with::blood-brain barrier in human.