Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) (BMP)

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are a group of signaling molecules belonging to the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) superfamily [PubMed: 25665554]. Originally discovered for their ability to induce bone and cartilage formation, BMPs are now recognized as multifunctional cytokines involved in various biological processes, including embryonic development, organogenesis, and cellular differentiation [UniProt]. They exert their effects by binding to specific type I and type II serine/threonine kinase receptors, which subsequently activate SMAD-dependent and SMAD-independent signaling pathways [PubMed: 30635594]. In clinical practice, recombinant BMPs like BMP-2 (Dibotermin alfa) and BMP-7 (Eptotermin alfa) are used to promote bone healing in spinal fusions and non-union fractures [FDA]. Dysregulation of BMP signaling is linked to several pathologies, such as fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP), pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), and various cancers, making the pathway a significant target for both agonistic and antagonistic therapeutic interventions [PubMed: 31431626]. Current drug development focuses on modulating ligand availability through decoy receptors or small molecule inhibitors of the associated kinase receptors.

Other names

BMPsBone morphogenetic proteinsBone morphogenic proteinsTGF-beta superfamily ligands

Agonism of BMP receptors via recombinant ligands to induce bone formation; antagonism or modulation of the BMP/TGF-beta signaling balance via ligand traps or small molecule inhibitors to treat vascular and fibrotic diseases [PubMed: 30635594].