Relaxin is an ovarian hormone that acts with estrogen to produce dilatation of the birth canal in many mammals. May be involved in remodeling of connective tissues during pregnancy, promoting growth of pubic ligaments and ripening of the cervix.
Subcellular locations: Secreted
Isoform 1 is expressed in the ovary during pregnancy. Also expressed in placenta, decidua and prostate. Isoform 2 is relatively abundant in placenta. It is in much lower abundance in the prostate gland. Not detected in the ovary.