Bone morphogenetic protein signaling in musculoskeletal cancer

Purpose: Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) belong to the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily of proteins; they were initially named after their ability to induce ectopic bone formation. Published studies have proved BMPs’ role in a variety of biological processes such as embryogenesis and patterning of body axes, and maintaining adult tissue homeostasis. Other studies have focused on BMPs properties, functions and possible involvement in skeletal diseases, including cancer. Methods: A literature search mainly paying attention to the role of BMPs in musculoskeletal tumors was performed in electronic databases. Results: This article discusses BMPs synthesis and signaling, and summarizes their prominent roles in the skeletal system for the differentiation of osteoblasts, osteocytes and chondrocytes. Conclusions: The review emphasizes on the role of BMP signaling in the initiation and progression of musculoskeletal cancer.