GDF2

Growth differentiation factor 2 (GDF2) also known as is_associated_with::bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-9 is a is_associated_with::protein that in humans is encoded by the GDF2 is_associated_with::gene. GDF2 belongs to the is_associated_with::transforming growth factor beta superfamily.

Function
GDF2 has a role in inducing and maintaining the ability of embryonic is_associated_with::basal forebrain cholinergic is_associated_with::neurons (BFCN) to respond to a is_associated_with::neurotransmitter called is_associated_with::acetylcholine; BFCN are important for the processes of is_associated_with::learning, is_associated_with::memory and is_associated_with::attention. GDF2 is also important for the maturation of BFCN. Another role of GDF2 has been recently suggested. GDF2 is a potent inducer of is_associated_with::hepcidin (a is_associated_with::cationic peptide that has is_associated_with::antimicrobial properties) in is_associated_with::liver cells (is_associated_with::hepatocytes) and can regulate is_associated_with::iron metabolism. The is_associated_with::physiological receptor of GDF2 is thought to be activin receptor-like kinase 1, ALK1 (also called ACVRL1), an is_associated_with::endothelial-specific type I receptor of the TGF-beta receptor family. is_associated_with::Endoglin, a type I membrane glycoprotein that forms the TGF-beta receptor complex, is a co-receptor of ALK1 for GDF2/BMP-9 binding. Mutations in ALK1 and endoglin cause is_associated_with::hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), a rare but life-threatening genetic disorder that leads to abnormal blood vessel formation in multiple tissues and organs of the body.

GDF2 is one of the most potent BMPs to induce orthotopic bone formation in vivo. BMP3, a blocker of most BMPs seems not to affect GDF2.