Description General description Activin A gene with two exons is mapped to human chromosome 2q35. Activin A also known as inhibin α-subunit belongs to the TGF-β (transforming growth factor-β) superfamily of proteins and its expression is exclusive to gonads, placenta and adrenal cortex. Application Activin A human has been used as a constituent of modified barth′s saline used in in vitro induction of pronephros. It has also been used as a constituent of Roswell Park memorial institute (RPMI) media to induce pancreatic differentiation of multipotent dermal fibroblasts in vitro. Biochem/physiol Actions Activins play a vital role in the regulation of hormonogenesis, cellular homeostasis and differentiation programs. Elevated expression of activin A and B leads to the loss of muscle mass. Both activin A and B have a potential to act as a serum markers of chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME). Physical form Lyophilized from 0.2 μm filtered solution in 10 mM sodium citrate, pH 3.0. Analysis Note The biological activity is determined by its ability to inhibit the proliferation of mouse MPC-11 cells.