The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the bone morphogenetic protein family which is part of the transforming growth factor-beta superfamily. The transforming growth factor-beta superfamily includes large families of growth and differentiation factors. It is thought that this protein may be involved in oocyte maturation and follicular development as a homodimer or by forming heterodimers with a related protein, Gdf9. Defects in this gene are the cause of ovarian dysgenesis 2.