這個基因編碼tgfβ（轉化生長因子β）超家族的一個成員。編碼的前蛋白經蛋白質水解處理產生多肽產物，包括抑制素a和b蛋白復合物的α亞單位。這些復合物對垂體分泌的促卵泡激素負性調節。抑制素還參與調控許多細胞過程，包括細胞增殖、凋亡、免疫反應和激素分泌。該基因突變可能與男性不育和女性卵巢早衰有關。[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]