### GFRA4 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: GFRA4  
**Location**: Chromosomal position and specific loci may vary, but it is generally located on chromosome 12.  
**Aliases**: GDNF family receptor alpha 4, GFR alpha 4.

#### Functional Description
The GFRA4 gene encodes a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored cell surface receptor that specifically binds to the neurotrophic factor persephin. It is a member of the glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) receptor family and plays a crucial role in mediating the activation of the RET tyrosine kinase receptor. This activation is significant for neuronal development, particularly in regulating the differentiation and survival of specific neuronal subtypes.

#### Associated Genes
While the summaries provided do not specify additional genes, GFRA4 is part of a larger network involving other GDNF family receptors (like GFRA1, GFRA2, GFRA3) that can interact with RET genes and other signaling molecules associated with neural development and function. Conditional knockout studies and expression analyses may illustrate its interactions with genes related to neurogenesis and endocrine regulation.

#### Aging and Age-Related Diseases
Research has indicated that GFRA4 and the RET signaling pathway may play roles in age-related diseases, particularly those impacting the nervous system and endocrine function. Deterioration in neurotrophic signaling, possibly linked to GFRA4, may contribute to neurodegenerative disorders and age-related decline in adrenal function, although specific studies focusing on GFRA4 and aging are limited. Altered RET signaling has also been highlighted in age-related conditions such as neurodegeneration and certain endocrine pathologies.

#### Drug Interactions
While no specific drugs have been definitively linked to GFRA4 in terms of pharmacological interactions, involvement in GDNF signaling pathways suggests that drugs affecting RET signaling, neurotrophic factors, orGPI-anchored proteins might modulate its activity or expression. More research is needed to identify specific drug classes.

#### Pathways and Biological Processes
GFRA4 is involved in several significant biological processes, including:

- **Neurogenesis**: Its role in neuronal differentiation and survival implicates it in the formation of neurons during development.
- **Signaling Pathways**: It participates in the RET signaling pathway, which is essential for various developmental processes.
- **Regulation of Cell Survival**: GFRA4 interacts with persephin and RET to promote the survival and development of specific neuronal populations.
- **Adrenal Medulla Development**: In postnatal development of the adrenal medulla, GFRA4 may play a role in chromaffin cell differentiation.

### Summary
GFRA4 is a critical receptor involved in neurodevelopment and survival signaling pathways, particularly concerning the GDNF family. Its relationship with other GDNF family receptors and RET underscores its importance in neurological health and disease, with potential implications in aging and age-related disorders. Further studies are needed to elucidate specific drug interactions and extend knowledge on its pathways and biological involvement.