BMP-4, Human

Human BMP-4 is one of at least 15 structurally and functionally related BMPs, which are members of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) superfamily. BMPs were originally identified as protein regulators of cartilage and bone formation. However, they havesince been shown to be involved in embryogenesis and morphogenesis of various tissues and organs. BMPs have also been shown to regulate the growth, differentiation, chemotaxis and apoptosis of various cell types, including mesenchymal cells, epithelial cells, hematopoietic cells and neuronal cells. BMP-4 is synthesized as large precursor molecules which are cleaved by proteolytic enzymes. The active form can consist of a dimer of two identical proteins or a heterodimer of two related bone morphogenetic proteins.