Bone Morphogenic Protein 2 (BMP-2) is a member of the Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) family. These proteins are synthesized as large precursor molecules which are cleaved by proteolytic enzymes. BMP-2 functions as a potent inducer of bone and cartilage development. Active BMP-2 consists of forming a homodimer or a heterodimer with a related BMP, such as BMP-7. BMP-2 signals through type I and type II receptor tyrosine kinases in conjuction with SMAD proteins to directly promote osteoblast differentiation. BMP-2 is also important during cardiac development and supports epicardial cell migration.
