The function of GFRA1 (GDNF family receptor alpha 1, Ensembl gene identifier ENSG00000151892) is as follows. Coreceptor for GDNF, a neurotrophic factor that enhances survival and morphological differentiation of dopaminergic neurons and increases their high-affinity dopamine uptake (PubMed:10829012, PubMed:31535977). GDNF-binding leads to autophosphorylation and activation of the RET receptor (PubMed:31535977). .