Is eRK signaling a central regulator for BMP-4 dependent capillary sprouting?
We demonstrate that ERK1/2 functions as an alternative pathway in BMP-4 signaling in HUVECs. Capillary sprouting induced by BMP-4 is dependent on ERK phosphorylation. ERK is essential for efficient transduction of BMP signals and serves as a positive feedback mechanism. On the other hand, stimulation of Smad 6 inhibits ERK activation and thus results in a negative feedback loop to fine-tune BMP signaling in HUVECs.
TDA with a combination of a polymer socket/metal ball has lower friction than the conventional TDA with metal socket/polymer ball. This conclusion has implications in the design of TDA.