Bone morphogenetic protein-induced heterotopic bone formation: What have we learned from the history of a half century?

Publication date: Available online 27 September 2014 Source:Japanese Dental Science Review Author(s): Takenobu Katagiri , Kenji Osawa , Sho Tsukamoto , Mai Fujimoto , Arei Miyamoto , Takato Mizuta Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) was originally discovered by Marshall Urist a half century ago following the observation of a unique activity that induced heterotopic bone formation in skeletal muscle tissue. The molecular mechanisms underlying the induction of heterotopic bone formation in skeletal muscle by BMPs were elucidated through the purification and molecular cloning of BMPs and identification of their functional receptors and downstream effectors, as well as from genetic disorders related to BMP activity. BMPs are important regulators of not only skeletal development and regeneration but also the homeostasis of normal skeletal muscle mass. There is still much to learn about the physiology and pathology at the interface of BMPs and skeletal muscle.
Source: Japanese Dental Science Review - Category: Dentistry Source Type: research