DCC netrin 1 receptor

Normal function

The DCC gene provides instructions for making a protein called the netrin-1 receptor, which is involved in the development of the nervous system. This protein attaches (binds) to a protein called netrin-1, and these two proteins fit together like a lock and key. The binding of netrin-1 to its receptor helps direct the growth of specialized nerve cell extensions called axons. Axons transmit nerve impulses that can signal muscle movement.

When the brain sends a signal to trigger muscle movement, the signal usually travels from one half of the brain to the opposite side of the body. The binding of netrin-1 to its receptor allows axons to develop this signaling pathway.

The netrin-1 receptor is also thought to act as a dependence receptor, which means it functions differently depending on whether or not it is bound to its protein. When the netrin-1 receptor is bound to netrin-1, it plays a role in nervous system development. When it is not bound to netrin-1, the netrin-1 receptor acts as a tumour suppressor, which means that it keeps cells from growing and dividing too fast or in an uncontrolled way. When the netrin-1 receptor is acting as a tumour suppressor, studies suggest that the netrin-1 receptor triggers the self-destruction of cells when they are no longer needed (apoptosis).

Conditions referring to this gene or chromosome

• Congenital mirror movement disorder

Other names

CRC18

CRCR1

DCC_HUMAN

IGDCC1

MRMV1

netrin receptor DCC

NTN1R1

tumour suppressor protein DCC