### GFRA3 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: GFRA3  
**Location**: Chromosome 12  

The GFRA3 gene encodes a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored protein that serves as a receptor for the neurotrophic factor artemin (ARTN). GFRA3 is part of the glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) receptor family and plays a crucial role in neural development and function by forming a signaling complex with the RET tyrosine kinase receptor.

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### 1. Associated Genes

GFRA3 is part of a network related to neurotrophic signaling and interacts with several genes, including:

- **RET**: As a coreceptor that associates with GFRA3 to transduce signals from artemin.
- **GDNF**: Although GFRA3 primarily binds artemin, it belongs to a family that includes GDNF interactions.
- **GFRA1** and **GFRA2**: Other GDNF receptor family members that interact with similar signaling pathways.
  
While direct associations with other genes may not be extensively characterized, its participation in pathways involving neural growth and survival means it is likely connected to additional genes involved in these processes.

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### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases

- **Neurodegenerative Diseases**: GFRA3 is implicated in various neurological conditions. Altered GFRA3 signaling may play a role in the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, as seen in diseases like Parkinson's disease. The role of artemin and its receptors in neuroprotection suggests that disruptions could correlate with age-related cognitive decline.
- **Neuronal Survival**: The function of GFRA3 in neuronal survival, particularly in the maintenance of peripheral neurons, indicates that it may influence age-associated loss of functions in the nervous system, although specific studies are limited.
  
While direct studies on GFRA3's connection to aging are sparse, the expression patterns and signaling pathways can give insights into potential age-related effects.

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### 3. Drug Interactions

No specific drugs are currently documented to interact directly with GFRA3 in the pharmacological databases (like UniProt or relevant literature). However, its role in neurotrophic signaling makes it of potential interest in therapies for conditions such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s diseases, where neuroprotective drugs might indirectly affect GFRA3 activity. 

In experimental settings, the modulation of GFRA3 signaling through the application of neurotrophic factors or inhibitors of RET activation could represent a therapeutic strategy in neurodegeneration but needs further research for clinical application.

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### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

GFRA3 is involved in several key biological pathways, including:

- **Neurotrophin Signaling Pathway**: GFRA3 mediates signaling for the neurotrophic factor artemin and is crucial for neuronal growth and survival.
- **RET Signaling**: It forms a signaling complex with RET, leading to pathways that affect neuronal differentiation and survival.
- **Cell Proliferation**: In addition to neuronal roles, GFRA3 and its signaling pathways are involved in regulatory processes affecting cell proliferation and differentiation.

Biological processes associated with GFRA3 include neurogenesis, neuronal signaling, and development of the nervous system. Research is ongoing to elucidate more about its roles under physiological and pathological conditions.

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Overall, GFRA3 is a gene of interest in neurobiology, particularly for its roles in signaling pathways that support neuronal health and resilience, making it relevant in aging and age-related neurodegenerative processes. Further research may reveal more connections and potential therapeutic targets involving this receptor.