This gene encodes a secreted ligand of the TGF-beta (transforming growth factor-beta) superfamily of proteins. Ligands of this family bind various TGF-beta receptors leading to recruitment and activation of SMAD family transcription factors that regulate gene expression. The encoded preproprotein is proteolytically processed to generate each subunit of the disulfide-linked homodimer. This protein is required for normal formation of some bones and joints in the limbs, skull, and axial skeleton. Mice lacking a functional copy of this gene exhibit joint and skeletal defects. [provided by RefSeq, Sep 2016]