Growth differentiation factor 7 (GDF7)

Growth differentiation factor 7 (GDF7) is a secreted protein belonging to the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) superfamily, also known as bone morphogenetic protein 12 (BMP-12)[1][2][4]. GDF7 is primarily involved in the development of the nervous system, specifically inducing the formation of sensory neurons and dorsal interneurons in the embryonic spinal cord[1][3]. It functions as a disulfide-linked homodimer and binds to TGF-beta receptors, activating SMAD signaling pathways that regulate gene expression[2][4][7]. GDF7 plays additional roles in tendon cell differentiation and has been implicated in the risk for conditions such as Barrett's esophagus, shoulder impingement syndrome, and certain cancers including medulloblastoma and esophageal adenocarcinoma[4][6]. No drugs specifically targeting GDF7 are currently approved or in clinical trials.

Other names

Growth/differentiation factor 7GDF7GDF-7BMP12bone morphogenetic protein 12

Not drug-targeted; acts as a ligand for TGF-beta receptors, activating SMAD transcription factors, modulating gene expression[4].