Description
General description
GDNF (glial cell derived neurotrophic factor) is a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF) superfamily. It is a potent neurotrophic factor which functions as a ligand for the multicomponent receptor complex containing GFRα1 (GDNF family receptor α1) and Ret receptor tyrosine kinase or neuronal cell adhesion molecule (NCAM). Rat GDNF is a homodimer linked by a disulfide bridge, and contains two glycosylated polypeptide chains that are released from the 211-residue-long precursor following a proteolytic cleavage.
The functional rat GDNF ligand is a disulfide-linked homodimer, of two 15.0kDa polypeptide chains called monomers. Each monomer contains seven conserved cysteine residues, one of which is used for inter-chain disulfide bridging and the others are involved in intramolecular ring formation known as the cysteine knot configuration.
Biochem/physiol Actions
GDNF (glial cell derived neurotrophic factor) enhances motoneuron survival, and facilitates the survival of midbrain dopaminergic neurons which are damaged in degenerative diseases, such as Parkinson′s. In vivo and in vitro, the interaction of this protein with GDNF family receptor α1 and its co-receptor Ret tyrosine kinase, results in elevated neurite extension and survival of motor and sensory neurons. In rats with neuropathic pain, the injection of this protein in the locus coeruleus (LC) produces prolonged analgesia by increasing descending noradrenergic inhibition.
Physical form
Lyophilized from 10 mM Sodium Citrate.
Preparation Note
Centrifuge the vial prior to opening. Reconstitute in water to a concentration of 0.1-1.0 mg/ml. Do not vortex. This solution can be stored at 2-8°C for up to 1 week. For extended storage, it is recommended to further dilute in a buffer containing a carrier protein (example 0.1% BSA) and store in working aliquots at -20°C to -80°C.
Other Notes
MSPDKQAAAL PRRERNRQAA AASPENSRGK GRRGQRGKNR GCVLTAIHLN VTDLGLGYET KEELIFRYCS GSCEAAETMY DKILKNLSRS RRLTSDKVGQ ACCRPVAFDD DLSFLDDSLV YHILRKHSAK RCGCI
