This gene encodes a secreted ligand of the GDNF (glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor) subfamily and TGF-beta (transforming growth factor-beta) superfamily of proteins. The encoded preproprotein is proteolytically processed to generate the mature protein. This protein signals through the RET receptor tyrosine kinase and a GPI-linked coreceptor, and promotes survival of neuronal populations. This protein may play a role in cell death, and nervous system development and function. Elevated expression of this gene has been observed in oral squamous cell carcinoma. [provided by RefSeq, Aug 2016].