text: Neurturin is encoded for by the NRTN gene located on chromosome 19 in humans and has been shown to promote potent effects on survival and function of developing and mature midbrain dopaminergic neurons (DA) in vitro. In vivo the direct administration of neurturin into substantia nigra of mice models also shows mature DA neuron protection. In addition, neurturin has also been shown to support the survival of several other neurons including sympathetic and sensory neurons of the dorsal root ganglia. Knockout mice have shown that neurturin does not appear essential for survival. However, evidence shows retarded growth of enteric, sensory and parasympathetic neurons in mice upon the removal of neurturin receptors.