The exact function of glial cell line–derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) in catecholaminergic cell survival in adulthood is unclear. Using a conditional GDNF-null mouse that suppresses GDNF expression in adulthood, Pascual et al. show that GDNF is an essential factor whose downregulation results in massive catecholaminergic neuronal death. Carlos Ibáñez discusses this paper in an accompanying News and Views.
- Alberto Pascual
- María Hidalgo-Figueroa
- José López-Barneo