Unc-5 netrin receptor D (UNC5D)

Unc-5 netrin receptor D (UNC5D) is a member of the UNC5 family of netrin receptors that mediate repulsive axon guidance and cell migration, acting as a receptor for secreted netrins, notably netrin-4[3][1][2]. It is a cell surface protein belonging to the immunoglobulin superfamily and is primarily involved in nervous system development, influencing axon navigation, neuronal patterning, and cell migration through repulsive signaling in response to its ligand. UNC5D is implicated in various developmental processes, including neuronal survival, morphogenesis, and the establishment of proper neural circuitry[1][2][3]. In the context of disease, UNC5D has been linked to certain cancers, with aberrant expression or mutation affecting tumor progression and apoptosis, and its broader role in cell migration suggests it may contribute to such processes in both neuronal and non-neuronal tissues[3]. No clinically approved drugs specifically target UNC5D, but it remains a research focus for understanding axon guidance, neurodevelopment, and tumor biology.

Other names

UNC5Dunc-5 homolog Dunc-5 netrin receptor DUNC5H4