[BMP-7 (Bone morphogenetic protein-7): a future treatment for chronic renal failure?]

Renal fibrosis is an evolutive process frequently leading to end stage renal failure. Several studies have demonstrated the dominant and mutually antagonistic roles of two proteins from the transforming growth factor superfamily. BMP-7 has a protective effect on the kidney, by decreasing apoptosis, maintaining and restoring the epithelial phenotype and dysplaying anti-fibrotic activity. The mechanisms through which TGF beta 1 favours fibrosis are still unclear, although most of its activity appears to be due to antagonism of the effects of BMP-7. Animal studies are very encouraging, as exogenous BMP-7 has allowed stabilisation and even regression of renal fibrosis with a concomitant stabilisation or improvement of renal function. The therapeutic implications of these findings are promising.