GDNF human

General description
Glial cell derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is a disulfide-linked homodimeric neurotrophic factor structurally related to Artemin, Neurturin and Persephin. These proteins belong to the cysteine-knot superfamily of growth factors that assume stable dimeric protein structures. The gene encoding this protein is localized on human chromosome 5p13.2.[1] The functional human GDNF ligand is a disulfide-linked homodimer, of two 15kDa polypeptide chains called monomers. Each monomer contains seven conserved cysteine residues, one of which (Cys 101) is used for inter-chain disulfide bridging and the others are involved in intramolecular ring formation known as the cysteine knot configuration.
Application
Glial cell derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) has been used as a supplement in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) culture medium to study the effect of growth factors on neuron viability, neurite outgrowth and arborisation. (3)
Biochem/physiol Actions
Glial cell derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) signals through a multicomponent receptor system, composed of a RET and one of the four GFR-α (α1-4) receptors. GDNF specifically promotes dopamine uptake and survival and morphological differentiation of midbrain neurons.[1][2][3] Using Parkinson′s disease mouse model, GDNF has been shown to improve conditions such as bradykinesia, rigidity, and postural instability.
Physical form
Lyophilized from 10 mM Sodium Citrate + 50 mM NaCl.
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.