Description
Growth differentiation factor 2 (GDF2) also known as bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-9 is a secreted ligand of the TGF-beta (transforming growth factor-beta) superfamily of proteins. Ligands of this family bind various TGF-beta receptors leading to recruitment and activation of SMAD family transcription factors that regulate gene expression. The preproprotein is proteolytically processed to generate each subunit of the disulfide-linked homodimer. This protein regulates cartilage and bone development, angiogenesis and differentiation of cholinergic central nervous system neurons. Homozygous null mice exhibit malformations of the vasculature and skeleton