Growth Differentiation Factor 5 (GDF5)

Growth/differentiation factor 5 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.

Growth differentiation factor 5 (GDF5) is a protein belonging to the transforming growth factor beta superfamily that is expressed in the developing central nervous system, and has a role in skeletal and joint development.It also increases the survival of neurones that respond to a neurotransmitter called dopamine, and is a potential therapeutic molecule associated with Parkinson's disease.