GFRA3 Human

GDNF Family Receptor Alpha 3 (GFRA3) is a protein-coding gene that plays a crucial role in the nervous system. It is part of the GDNF (Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor) receptor family, which is essential for the survival and differentiation of various types of neurons.

GFRA3 is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-linked cell surface receptor. It forms a signaling receptor complex with the RET tyrosine kinase receptor and binds the ligand, artemin . This binding leads to the autophosphorylation and activation of the RET receptor, which is crucial for the survival of sensory and sympathetic peripheral neurons .

The GDNF family, including GFRA3, is highly conserved and plays a significant role in the development and maintenance of the nervous system. GFRA3, in particular, is involved in various biological processes such as axon guidance, neural crest cell migration, and the development of the enteric nervous system . It also plays a role in the regulation of dopamine uptake involved in synaptic transmission and the development of the peripheral nervous system .

Mutations or dysregulation of GFRA3 have been associated with several diseases, including prostate cancer and prostate calculus . The recombinant form of this protein has been shown to promote the survival and differentiation of dopaminergic neurons in culture and prevent apoptosis of motor neurons induced by axotomy .

The recombinant human GFRA3 is used in various research applications to study its role in neuronal survival and differentiation. It is also used to investigate its potential therapeutic applications in neurodegenerative diseases and cancer.