GDF9

GDF9 is 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 regulates ovarian function. Reduced expression of this gene may be associated with polycystic ovary syndrome and mutations in this gene may be more common in mothers of dizygotic twins.

Growth Differentiation Factor 9

Required for ovarian folliculogenesis. Promotes primordial follicle development. Stimulates granulosa cell proliferation. Promotes cell transition from G0/G1 to S and G2/M phases, through an increase of CCND1 and CCNE1 expression, and RB1 phosphorylation. It regulates STAR expression and cAMP-dependent progesterone release in granulosa and thecal cells. Attenuates the suppressive effects of activin A on STAR expression and progesterone production by increasing the expression of inhibin B. It suppresses FST and FSTL3 production in granulosa-lutein cells.

BMP signaling pathway Source: GO_Central
Female gamete generation Source: ProtInc
Negative regulation of cell growth Source: Ensembl
Oocyte growth Source: Ensembl
Positive regulation of cell population proliferation Source: UniProtKB
Positive regulation of pathway-restricted SMAD protein phosphorylation Source: GO_Central
Regulation of progesterone secretion Source: UniProtKB
SMAD protein signal transduction Source: GO_Central
Transforming growth factor beta receptor signaling pathway Source: ProtInc

Secreted

Altered GDF9 function may be involved in ovarian disorders and contribute to the likelihood of dizygotic twinning.
Premature ovarian failure 14 (POF14):
An ovarian disorder defined as the cessation of ovarian function under the age of 40 years. It is characterized by oligomenorrhea or amenorrhea, in the presence of elevated levels of serum gonadotropins and low estradiol.

Phosphorylated; phosphorylation is critical for GDF9 function. In vitro, can be phosphorylated by CK at Ser-325.