GDF3 Human

Growth Differentiation Factor-3 (GDF-3) is a member of the Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily, which plays a crucial role in regulating various cellular processes, including growth, differentiation, and development. GDF-3 is particularly significant due to its involvement in early embryonic development and adipose tissue homeostasis.

The GDF-3 gene encodes a secreted ligand that binds to TGF-β receptors, leading to the recruitment and activation of SMAD family transcription factors, which regulate gene expression . The encoded preproprotein is proteolytically processed to generate each subunit of the disulfide-linked homodimer . Unlike most TGF-β family members, GDF-3 and its close homolog GDF-9 are not disulfide-linked dimers .

GDF-3 is expressed in various tissues, including adult bone marrow, spleen, thymus, and adipose tissue . During embryogenesis, GDF-3 controls the formation of the anterior visceral endoderm and mesoderm and establishes anterior-posterior identity through a receptor complex comprising ACVR1B and the coreceptor CRIPTO . Additionally, GDF-3 regulates adipose tissue homeostasis and energy balance under nutrient overload by signaling through a receptor complex based on ACVR1C and CRIPTO .

Mutations in the GDF-3 gene are associated with several developmental disorders, including microphthalmia, coloboma, and skeletal abnormalities . These conditions highlight the importance of GDF-3 in ocular and skeletal development.

Recombinant human GDF-3 is produced using various expression systems, including Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells and Escherichia coli (E. coli) . The recombinant protein is typically purified to high levels of purity and is used in various research applications, including studies on embryonic development and adipose tissue regulation .