{"id":"de26404a-3bac-40f3-8f4d-bfba563bb334","slug":"reply-to-bone-morphogenetic-proteins-contribution-to-pulmonary-artery-hypertension","title":"Reply to “Bone morphogenetic protein’s contribution to pulmonary artery hypertension”","authors":["Tyler King","Mark de Caestecker","Jonathan W. Lowery"],"abstract":"Background: Dr. Epstein has raised concerns regarding potential complications associated with recombinant Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) usage, particularly its suspected link to pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). While adverse events related to BMP are acknowledged, the authors argue against the notion that BMP contributes to PAH development. Summary: The authors present evidence suggesting that PAH is more likely associated with a loss-of-function in the BMP signaling pathway rather than its over-activation. They highlight that genetic mutations in the BMP Receptor Type 2 (BMPR2) are linked to PAH and that enhancing BMP signaling may actually have protective effects against the disease. Conclusion: The evidence presented indicates that BMP signaling plays a protective role in the development of PAH, contradicting the claim that BMP usage in spine fusion could lead to this condition. The authors emphasize the importance of considering the side effects of BMP while maintaining that PAH is unlikely to be one of them. Keywords: Bone Morphogenetic Protein, pulmonary arterial hypertension, BMP signaling, BMPR2, spine fusion, adverse events, gene therapy","thumbnailUrl":null,"publishDate":"2016-10-19T00:00:00.000Z","doi":"10.4103/2152-7806.192635","categories":["Spine","Letter to the Editor"],"fullTextUrl":"https://surgicalneurologyint.com/api/articles/de26404a-3bac-40f3-8f4d-bfba563bb334/pdf"}