This gene encodes a member of the TGF-beta (transforming growth factor-beta) superfamily of proteins. The encoded preproprotein is proteolytically processed to generate a subunit of the dimeric activin and inhibin protein complexes. These complexes activate and inhibit, respectively, follicle stimulating hormone secretion from the pituitary gland. The encoded protein also plays a role in eye, tooth and testis development. Homozygous knockout mice for this gene lack whiskers and exhibit tooth and palate defects, leading to neonatal lethality. [provided by RefSeq, Aug 2016]