The GDNF family ligands and receptors - implications for neural development

The glial cell line derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) family has recently been expanded to include four members, and the interactions between these Neurotrophic Factors and their unique receptor system is now beginning to be understood. Furthermore, analysis of mice lacking the genes for GDNF, Neurturin, and their related receptors has confirmed the importance of these factors in neurodevelopment. The results of such analyses reveal numerous similarities and potential overlaps in the way the GDNF and the nerve growth factor (NGF) families regulate development of the peripheral nervous system.