This gene encodes a secreted ligand of the TGFbeta (transforming growth factorbeta) superfamily of proteins. Ligands of this family bind various TGFbeta 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 disulfidelinked homodimer. This protein negatively regulates skeletal muscle cell proliferation and differentiation. Mutations in this gene are associated with increased skeletal muscle mass in humans and other mammals. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2016] - Proteine/Peptide
