Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor receptor alpha 1 (GFRα1)

Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor receptor alpha 1 (GFRα1) is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored cell surface co-receptor for glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), mainly expressed in neurons of the central and peripheral nervous system. Upon GDNF binding, GFRα1 interacts with and activates the transmembrane RET receptor tyrosine kinase, forming a high-affinity signaling complex essential for neuronal survival, maintenance, and differentiation. GFRα1, together with RET and GDNF, mediates signal transduction through MAPK and PI3K pathways, promoting neurotrophic and developmental effects. Dysregulation of the GDNF/GFRα1/RET pathway is implicated in several neurological diseases, cancers, and developmental disorders, making GFRα1 a therapeutically relevant target for modulating neuroprotection and regeneration.

Other names

GDNF family receptor alpha 1GFRα1GDNF receptor alpha 1

Ligand-induced activation: GDNF binds GFRα1, which recruits and activates the RET tyrosine kinase receptor, initiating downstream signaling (MAPK, PI3K/AKT). GFRα1 agonists mimic GDNF, triggering neurotrophic signaling through RET activation.