Abstract
The role of follistatin as an activin-binding protein has dominated the study of this molecule for the last 10 years. However, there is emerging evidence that follistatin has a role in modulating the biology of other members of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) superfamily. This review summarizes the current concepts encompassing follistatin biochemistry as well as molecules with which it is functionally associated. Moreover, the importance of the two follistatin isoforms (follistatin-288 and follistatin-315) is discussed with particular emphasis on the regulation of the ovary. In addition to activin, this review discusses the functions of other members of the TGF-beta superfamily, for example growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF-9), bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP-15), BMP-6, BMP-4 and BMP-7, in the ovary, and the potential interactions between follistatin and these growth factors. The complex network of TGF-beta superfamily growth factor members involved in the modulation of ovarian function and the interactions of follistatin with these proteins is highlighted.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.