Gremlin 2 (GREM2)

GREM2 encodes a member of the BMP (bone morphogenic protein) antagonist family. Like BMPs, BMP antagonists contain cystine knots and typically form homo- and heterodimers. The CAN (cerberus and dan) subfamily of BMP antagonists, to which this gene belongs, is characterized by a C-terminal cystine knot with an eight-membered ring. The antagonistic effect of the secreted glycosylated protein encoded by this gene is likely due to its direct binding to BMP proteins. As an antagonist of BMP, this gene may play a role in regulating organogenesis, body patterning, and tissue differentiation. The deduced protein has a calculated molecular mass of 19 kD following signal peptide removal. RT-PCR detected expression of Prdc in all mouse tissues examined, with highest expression in ovary, followed by brain, spleen, colon, kidney, and uterus.