Summary
Signals that pattern dorsal-ventral axes and regulate differentiation via SMAD proteins.
In depth
Ligands bind receptor serine-threonine kinases, which phosphorylate SMADs that enter the nucleus. BMP specifies ventral fates, bone formation and apoptosis; antagonists (noggin, chordin) from the organiser create gradients.
Ligands are dimers; receptors form tetramers. The pathway is regulated by extracellular antagonists. BMPs also induce bone formation (BMP-2 is used in spinal fusion).
Example: BMP signalling sets dorsal-ventral polarity in frogs and flies.
Frequently asked questions
What is BMP and TGF-Beta Signalling?
Signals that pattern dorsal-ventral axes and regulate differentiation via SMAD proteins.
Which area of biology covers BMP and TGF-Beta Signalling, and how advanced is it?
BMP and TGF-Beta Signalling is one of the 54 topics in Developmental Biology. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Spemann Organiser, Body Axes Formation, Hedgehog Signalling.
Can you give an example of BMP and TGF-Beta Signalling?
Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva involves overactive BMP signalling.
What should I learn before BMP and TGF-Beta Signalling?
Work through the Beginner topics in Developmental Biology first, such as Fertilisation, Zygote, Embryo, then return to BMP and TGF-Beta Signalling. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to BMP and TGF-Beta Signalling?
The closest topics to BMP and TGF-Beta Signalling are Spemann Organiser, Body Axes Formation, Hedgehog Signalling, Morphogens. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand BMP and TGF-Beta Signalling?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for BMP and TGF-Beta Signalling. To practise the whole of Developmental Biology, use the Developmental Biology quiz.
How is BMP and TGF-Beta Signalling different from Spemann Organiser?
BMP and TGF-Beta Signalling: Signals that pattern dorsal-ventral axes and regulate differentiation via SMAD proteins. Spemann Organiser: A signalling region in the amphibian gastrula that induces a second body axis when transplanted. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study BMP and TGF-Beta Signalling step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Spemann Organiser and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Developmental Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.