BMP-1/tolloid-like proteinases synchronize matrix assembly with growth factor activation to promote morphogenesis and tissue remodeling.

Bone morphogenetic protein-1 (BMP-1)/tolloid-like proteinases, here called BTPs, include the proteases originally identified for their roles in the C-terminal maturation of fibrillar procollagens ("procollagen C-proteinase"). Though numerous other substrates have since been discovered, the BTPs remain the main proteases involved in extracellular matrix assembly with little or no implication in matrix degradation. During the same period however, the BTPs have also become established as important proteases in the activation of growth factors, including TGF-β1, BMP-2/-4, GDF-8/-11 and IGFs, as well as the release of anti-angiogenic fragments from parent proteins. The BTPs are therefore key players in many pathophysiological processes such as morphogenesis, tissue repair and tumor progression. This mini-review summarizes our current knowledge of the functions of BTPs, their substrates and unusual mechanisms of regulation, and discusses their potential as new targets for future therapies.