GDF3

Growth differentiation factor-3 (GDF3), also known as Vg-related gene 2 (Vgr-2) is is_associated_with::protein that in humans is encoded by the GDF3 is_associated_with::gene. GDF3 belongs to the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) superfamily. It has high similarity to other TGF-β superfamily members including Vg1 (found in frogs) and is_associated_with::GDF1.

Tissue distribution
Expression of GDF3 occurs in ossifying is_associated_with::bone during is_associated_with::embryonic development and in the is_associated_with::brain, is_associated_with::thymus, is_associated_with::spleen, is_associated_with::bone marrow and is_associated_with::adipose tissue of adults.

Function
GDF3 is a bi-functional protein that has some intrinsic activity and also modulate other TGF-β superfamily members, e.g. potentiates the activity of is_associated_with::NODAL. It may also inhibit other TGF-β superfamily members (i.e. BMPs), thus regulating the balance between different modes of TGF-beta signaling. It has been shown to negatively and positively control differentiation of is_associated_with::embryonic stem cells in mice and humans. This molecule plays a role in is_associated_with::mesoderm and definitive endoderm formation during the pre-is_associated_with::gastrulation stages of development.