GDF-9 polyclonal antibody

GDF 9 is a member of the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) family and the TGF-beta superfamily. This group of proteins is characterized by a polybasic proteolytic processing site which is cleaved to produce a mature protein containing seven conserved cysteine residues. The members of this family are regulators of cell growth and differentiation in both embryonic and adult tissues. Growth factors synthesized by ovarian somatic cells directly affect oocyte growth and function. GDF 9 is expressed in oocytes and is thought to be required for ovarian folliculogenesis.