Artn - artemin

This gene encodes a secreted ligand of the glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) subfamily and TGF-beta (transforming growth factor-beta) superfamily of proteins. Ligands of this family bind various TGF-beta receptors leading to recruitment and activation of SMAD family transcription factors that regulate gene expression. The encoded preproprotein is proteolytically processed to generate each subunit of the disulfide-linked homodimer. This protein signals through the RET receptor and GFR alpha 3 coreceptor, and supports the survival of a number of peripheral neuron populations and at least one population of dopaminergic CNS neurons. Mice lacking a functional copy of this gene exhibit ptosis and impaired development of the sympathetic nervous system. [provided by RefSeq, Aug 2016]