: It typically suppresses "default" neural differentiation to promote skin formation; however, in the adult brain, it helps maintain neural stem cell pools. Metabolic & Clinical Significance
: Factors like Noggin, Chordin, and Gremlin act as "ligand traps," preventing BMP4 from binding to its receptors. This balance is vital for correct organ patterning. Key Functions in Development in the adult brain
Beyond development, BMP4 is a major player in adult metabolism and disease. and Gremlin act as "ligand traps
: It primarily signals through two routes: and limbs. In the heart
: It can also directly activate pathways like ERK, p38 MAPK, and JNK to regulate migration and survival.
: It drives the formation of the heart, lungs, kidneys, and limbs. In the heart, it is essential for atrio-ventricular septation .