这个基因编码tgfβ（转化生长因子β）超家族的一个成员。编码的前蛋白经蛋白质水解处理产生多肽产物，包括抑制素a和b蛋白复合物的α亚单位。这些复合物对垂体分泌的促卵泡激素负性调节。抑制素还参与调控许多细胞过程，包括细胞增殖、凋亡、免疫反应和激素分泌。该基因突变可能与男性不育和女性卵巢早衰有关。[由RefSeq提供，2016年8月]
This gene encodes a member of the TGF-beta (transforming growth factor-beta) superfamily of proteins. The encoded preproprotein is proteolytically processed to generate multiple peptide products, including the alpha subunit of the inhibin A and B protein complexes. These complexes negatively regulate follicle stimulating hormone secretion from the pituitary gland. Inhibins have also been implicated in regulating numerous cellular processes including cell proliferation, apoptosis, immune response and hormone secretion. Mutations in this gene may be associated with male infertility and premature ovarian failure in female human patients. [provided by RefSeq, Aug 2016]