In embryonic stem (ES) cells growth/differentiation factor-3 (GDF3) is involved in maintaining the undifferentiated state and the ability to differentiate into the full spectrum of cell types. Bone morphogenetic protein 6 (BMP-6) and BMP-7 induces expression of GDF3. Presence of GDF3 increases luteinizing hormone receptor mRNA expression in human granulosa cells. GDF3 is highly expressed in adipose tissue. It regulates adipose-tissue homeostasis and diet-induced obesity under a high lipid load. GDF3 participates in ocular and skeletal development. Mutation in GDF3 causes ocular and skeletal anomalies.
