This gene encodes a member of the insulin family of protein growth factors, which are involved in fetal development and growth. It is an imprinted gene that is expressed from the paternal allele while the maternal allele is silenced. The encoded protein is proteolytically processed to generate the mature peptide hormone, which binds to receptors of the insulin receptor family. This peptide plays a role in oocyte development and folliculogenesis in female cattle. Polymorphisms in this gene may be associated with cattle body mass.
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