The protein encoded by this gene is an
insulin like
hormone produced mainly in
gonadal tissues in males and females. Studies of the mouse counterpart suggest that this gene may be involved in the development of
urogenital tract and
female fertility. INSL-3 initiates meiotic progression in follicle-enclosed
oocytes by mediating a reduction in intra-oocyte cAMP concentration by activating leucine-rich repeat-containing
G protein-coupled receptor 8 (LGR8). It may also act as a hormone to regulate growth and differentiation of
gubernaculum, and thus mediating intra-abdominal
testicular descent. The
mutations in this gene may lead to, but not a frequent cause of,
cryptorchidism. == References ==