UNC5C

The protein encoded by UNC5C is Uncoordinated-5 homolog C, a member of the netrin receptor family. Common aliases include UNC5H3. It functions as a dependence receptor, mediating both attractive and repulsive axon guidance by binding netrin-1; in the absence of ligand, it triggers apoptotic signaling via caspase activation.
UNC5C is involved in the netrin signaling pathway and regulates neuronal migration and angiogenesis. Dysregulation is linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and various cancers, including colorectal and breast cancer. Preclinical studies explore UNC5C agonists/antagonists as potential therapeutics for neuroprotection and cancer treatment, though no clinical candidates have advanced yet.