Artemin (ARTN) Active Protein

The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the glial cell line-derived neurotophic factor (GDNF) family of ligands which are a group of ligands within the TGF-beta superfamily of signaling molecules. GDNFs are unique in having neurotrophic properties and have potential use for gene therapy in neurodegenerative disease. Artemin has been shown in culture to support the survival of a number of peripheral neuron populations and at least one population of dopaminergic CNS neurons. Its role in the PNS and CNS is further substantiated by its expression pattern in the proximity of these neurons. This protein is a ligand for the RET receptor and uses GFR-alpha 3 as a coreceptor. Multiple transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene. [provided by RefSeq]

Function: Ligand for the GFR-alpha-3-RET receptor complex but can also activate the GFR-alpha-1-RET receptor complex. Supports the survival of sensory and sympathetic peripheral neurons in culture and also supports the survival of dopaminergic neurons of the ventral mid-brain. Ref.1 Ref.2

Subunit structure: Homodimer; disulfide-linked

By similarity. Ref.8

Subcellular location: Secreted

Tissue specificity: Ubiquitous. Expressed at high levels in peripheral tissues including prostate, placenta, pancreas, heart, kidney, pituitary gland, lung and testis. Expressed at low levels in the brain. Ref.1 Ref.2

Developmental stage: Expressed during embryogenesis. High level expression seen in fetal kidney and lung while a low level expression seen in the fetal brain. Ref.1

Sequence similarities: Belongs to the TGF-beta family. GDNF subfamily.