Emerging Role of Bone Morphogenetic Proteins as a Context Dependent Pro-Angiogenic Cue

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), members of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily, are multifunctional secreted growth factors that are essential for coordinating complex developmental processes. Recent advances using genetic and molecular approaches have recognized a previously underappreciated angiogenic role for BMP signaling during vascular development and vascular disease. Compelling evidence includes the discovery of mutations in BMP signaling components that have been found in patients with human hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). A comprehensive review of in vivo and in vitro studies has revealed that the angiogenic response to BMP signaling is context and ligand dependent. This review provides details on these studies as the field moves towards BMP-mediated therapeutic intervention of human vascular diseases.