GDF7

This gene encodes 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 encoded preproprotein is proteolytically processed to generate each subunit of the disulfide-linked homodimer. This protein may play a role in the differentiation of tendon cells and spinal cord interneurons. A mutation in this gene may be associated with increased risk for Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma. [provided by RefSeq, Sep 2016]

Growth Differentiation Factor 7

May play an active role in the motor area of the primate neocortex.

Activin receptor signaling pathway Source: BHF-UCL
Axon guidance Source: Ensembl
BMP signaling pathway Source: BHF-UCL
Branching morphogenesis of an epithelial tube Source: Ensembl
Cell fate commitment Source: Ensembl
Epithelial cell differentiation Source: Ensembl
Forebrain morphogenesis Source: Ensembl
Gland morphogenesis Source: Ensembl
Midbrain development Source: Ensembl
Morphogenesis of an epithelial fold Source: Ensembl
Pathway-restricted SMAD protein phosphorylation Source: BHF-UCL
Positive regulation of gene expression Source: Ensembl
Positive regulation of neuron differentiation Source: Ensembl
Positive regulation of pathway-restricted SMAD protein phosphorylation Source: BHF-UCL
Positive regulation of tendon cell differentiation Source: Ensembl
Positive regulation of transcription, DNA-templated Source: BHF-UCL
Reproductive structure development Source: Ensembl
Roof plate formation Source: Ensembl
SMAD protein signal transduction Source: GO_Central
Spinal cord association neuron differentiation Source: Ensembl

Secreted