This gene encodes a secreted ligand of the 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. A neurturin mutation has been described in a family with Hirschsprung Disease. [provided by RefSeq, Aug 2016].