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. This protein may play a role in the differentiation of tendon cells and spinal cord interneurons. A mutation in this gene may be associated with increased risk for Barretts esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma. [provided by RefSeq, Sep 2016],function:May play an active role in the motor area of the primate neocortex.,similarity:Belongs to the TGF-beta family.,subunit:Homodimer, disulfide-linked.,
