The GDF3 gene provides instructions for making a protein that is part of the transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) superfamily, which is a group of proteins that help control the growth and development of tissues throughout the body. Within the TGFβ superfamily, the GDF3 protein belongs to the bone morphogenetic protein family, which helps regulate the growth and maturation (differentiation) of bone and cartilage. Cartilage is a tough but flexible tissue that makes up much of the skeleton during early development. The proteins in this family help regulate cell growth and differentiation both before and after birth. While the GDF3 protein is known to be involved in bone and cartilage development, its exact role is unclear.
The GDF3 protein is also involved in the development of the eyes, specifically the specialized light-sensitive tissue that lines the back of the eye called the retina.
Other Names
GDF-3; growth/differentiation factor 3
Related Genetics Topics
- Anophthalmia/Microphthalmia — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Coloboma — MedlinePlus Genetics
- Klippel-Feil syndrome — MedlinePlus Genetics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 9573
- OMIM: 606522
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
