Bone morphogenetic proteins （BMPs）, a member of transforming growth factor-beta （TGF-beta） superfamily, can induce formation of cartilage and bone and also regulate osteoblasts, osteogenic genes and osteogenesis. BMPs together with hormones and local signals in cellular microenvironment determine differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. Further researches about BMPs-related genes will provide a new way to un- derstand and treat metabolic bone diseases in humans and animals. This paper introduces bone metabolism-related BMPs and their transcription factors.
WANG Jian-guo ZHU Xiao-yan WU Dian-jun LIU Lei WU Chen-chen WANG Zhe LIU Guo-wen
