Growth factor of the TGF-beta superfamily that plays essential roles in many developmental processes including cartilage and bone formation . Also plays an important role in the regulation of HAMP/hepcidin expression and iron metabolism by acting as a ligand for hemojuvelin/HJV . Also acts to promote expression of HAMP, potentially via the interaction with its receptor BMPR1A/ALK3 (, ). Initiates the canonical BMP signaling cascade by associating with type I receptor ACVR1 and type II receptor ACVR2B . In turn, ACVR1 propagates signal by phosphorylating SMAD1/5/8 that travel to the nucleus and act as activators and repressors of transcription of target. Can also signal through non-canonical pathway such as TAZ-Hippo signaling cascade to modulate VEGF signaling by regulating VEGFR2 expression .
Subcellular locations: Secreted