Artemin (ARTN)

Artemin (ARTN) is a secreted growth factor in the glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) family and a member of the broader TGF-beta superfamily. The ARTN gene encodes a preproprotein that is proteolytically processed to form a disulfide-linked homodimer serving as the mature, active protein. Artemin binds preferentially to the GFRα3 coreceptor, which, in association with the RET receptor tyrosine kinase, transduces intracellular signals crucial for neuron survival, differentiation, migration, and axonal growth in both the peripheral and central nervous system. Artemin also acts via alternative receptors, such as NCAM, contributing to its effects on neuronal regeneration. Beyond neurotrophic functions, ARTN is implicated in tumor growth, metastasis, therapy resistance (notably in breast cancer), and certain developmental and inflammatory conditions. Its signaling pathways and tissue-specific actions make artemin a promising, but potentially risky, therapeutic target and disease biomarker.

Other names

EnovinNeublastinEVNNBNEnovin, neurotrophic factorARTarteminneublastin

Activation of GFRα3–RET receptor complex: Artemin binds GFRα3, forming a receptor complex with RET (a receptor tyrosine kinase), which triggers intracellular signaling pathways (e.g., MAPK, Akt, Src) regulating survival, growth, and differentiation of neurons. Alternative signaling via NCAM: Artemin also directly interacts with neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), modulating alternative signal transduction pathways, particularly in neurite outgrowth and neuroprotection, even in the absence of RET.