Growth Differentiation Factor 9 (GDF9) ELISA Kit for Rat

Growth factors synthesized by ovarian somatic cells directly affect oocyte growth and function. Growth differentiation factor-9 (GDF9) is expressed in oocytes and is thought to be required for ovarian folliculogenesis. GDF9 is a member of the transforming growth factor-beta superfamily. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]

GDF9: 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. Altered GDF9 function may be involved in ovarian disorders. Rare variants in GDF9 have been found in patients with premature ovarian failure and mothers of dizygotic twins. Belongs to the TGF-beta family.

Protein type: Secreted; Secreted, signal peptide; Cytokine

Chromosomal Location of Human Ortholog: 5q31.1

Cellular Component: extracellular space; cytoplasm

Molecular Function: growth factor activity; cytokine activity; transforming growth factor beta receptor binding

Biological Process: BMP signaling pathway; regulation of apoptosis; oocyte growth; transforming growth factor beta receptor signaling pathway; regulation of MAPKKK cascade; positive regulation of cell proliferation; female gamete generation; negative regulation of cell growth; cell development