Recombinant Human Growth differentiation factor-3 (GDF3)

Growth differentiation factor-3 (GDF3) also known as Vg-related gene 2 (Vgr-2), is a protein belonging to the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) superfamily. It has high similarity to other TGF-β superfamily members called Vg1, BMP2, BMP6 and GDF1, but lacks one of the conserved cysteine residues common to all other TGF-β superfamily members.¹ Expression of GDF3 occurs in ossifying bone during embryonic development and in the brain, thymus, spleen, bone marrow and adipose tissue of adults.^2,3
GDF3 is a bi-functional protein that inhibits some TGF-β superfamily members (e.g. BMPs) while activating others, thus regulating the balance between different modes of TGF-beta signaling.⁴ GDF3 regulates both of the two major characteristics of embryonic stem cells: the ability to maintain the undifferentiated state and the ability to differentiate into the full spectrum of cell types.⁵

The biological activity of Human Growth/Differentiation Factor-3 is determined by its ability to inhibit induced alkaline phosphatase production by ATC\DC-5 chondrogenic cells. The expected ED₅₀ for this effect is 100-150 ng/ml.

AAIPVPKLSC KNLCHRHQLF INFRDLGWHK WIIAPKGFMA NYCHGECPFS LTISLNSSNY AFMQALMHAV DPEIPQAVCI PTKLSPISML YQDNNDNVIL RHYEDMVVDE CGCG

The lyophilized protein should be stored desiccated at -20°C. The reconstituted protein can be stored for at least one week at 4°C. For long-term storage of the reconstituted protein, aliquot into working volumes and store at -20°C in a manual defrost freezer. Avoid Repeated Freeze Thaw Cycles.

1. Van den Eijnden-van Raaij, A. et al. (1998) Oncogene 16: 95
2. Brown, C. et al. (2006) Development 133: 319
3. Yu, L. et al. (2005) Neurosci Lett 389: 83
4. Brivanlou, A. et al. (2006) Cell Cycle 5: 1069
5. Brivanlou, AH. et al. (2006) Developement 133: 209