GDNF family receptor alpha-4 (GFRA4)

GDNF family receptor alpha-4 (GFRA4) is a member of the glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor receptor alpha family, functioning as a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-linked cell surface receptor, most notably for the neurotrophic factor persephin. GFRA4 acts as a co-receptor for ligand-dependent activation of the receptor tyrosine kinase RET, supporting signal transduction important for neuronal survival, differentiation, and nervous system development[1][2][3][4]. It is implicated in disorders such as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2, familial medullary thyroid carcinoma, and Hirschsprung disease; its aberrant expression or altered regulation may disrupt normal neurocrine signaling and developmental processes. GFRA4's precise physiological and pathophysiological roles continue to be elucidated, with a growing interest in how its modulation could influence disease outcomes in neurodevelopmental, neoplastic, and possibly immune-related conditions[1][2][3][4].

Other names

GFRA4GDNF receptor alpha-4Persephin receptorGFR-alpha-4GDNFR-alpha-4GFR receptor alpha 4GDNF family receptor alpha 4

Ligand-induced receptor activation: Persephin binds GFRA4, which acts as a co-receptor to activate the RET tyrosine kinase, initiating downstream signaling pathways important for cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation[2][4].