BMP8b

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. The encoded protein stimulates thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue. Expression of this gene may be downregulated in pancreatic cancer. This gene may have arose from a gene duplication event and its gene duplicate is also present on chromosome 1. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2016]

Full Name

Bone Morphogenetic Protein 8b

Function

Induces cartilage and bone formation. May be the osteoinductive factor responsible for the phenomenon of epithelial osteogenesis. Plays a role in calcium regulation and bone homeostasis (By similarity).

Biological Process

BMP signaling pathway Source: GO_Central
Cartilage development Source: UniProtKB-KW
Cell differentiation Source: UniProtKB-KW
Ossification Source: UniProtKB-KW
Positive regulation of pathway-restricted SMAD protein phosphorylation Source: GO_Central
Skeletal system development Source: ProtInc
SMAD protein signal transduction Source: GO_Central

Cellular Location

Secreted