Myostatin is a protein found almost exclusively in muscles used for movement (skeletal muscles), where it is active both before and after birth. This protein typically limits muscle growth, ensuring muscles do not grow too large.
The MSTN gene provides instructions for making the protein myostatin. This protein is part of the transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) superfamily, a group of proteins that help control the growth and development of tissues throughout the body.
Researchers are studying myostatin as a potential treatment for various muscular dystrophies that cause muscle weakness and wasting (atrophy).
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