Bmp4 -

Beyond development, BMP4 is a major player in adult metabolism and disease.

: It can also directly activate pathways like ERK, p38 MAPK, and JNK to regulate migration and survival. Beyond development, BMP4 is a major player in

BMP4 is synthesized as a 408-residue preproprotein that undergoes specific proteolytic cleavage to become a mature 116-residue active peptide. : Factors like Noggin, Chordin, and Gremlin act

: Factors like Noggin, Chordin, and Gremlin act as "ligand traps," preventing BMP4 from binding to its receptors. This balance is vital for correct organ patterning. Key Functions in Development : It initiates bone and cartilage development and

: Binding to Type I (ALK3/ALK6) and Type II (BMPR2) receptors triggers the phosphorylation of R-Smads (Smad1/5/8) , which complex with Smad4 and move into the nucleus to regulate gene expression.

: It initiates bone and cartilage development and is particularly critical for patterning teeth. Mutations in BMP4 are linked to tooth agenesis (missing teeth).