BMP-3b, also known as GDF-10, belongs to the TGF-beta superfamily. TGF-beta family proteins are synthesized and secreted as homodimeric or heterodimeric prepropeptides that are cleaved by proprotein convertases such as furin to generate the carboxy-terminal mature dimeric protein. BMP-3b is expressed in developing skeletal structures of the craniofacial region and the vertebral column as well as in the adult trachea, aorta, cerebellum, and uterus. BMP-3b promotes osteoblast generation and inhibits osteoclast differentiation. It is also upregulated in adipocytes during obesity where it inhibits adipogenesis and protects against high fat diet-induced obesity.
