BMPR2 inhibits activin- and BMP-signaling via wild type ALK2

Abstract Activin A is a member of the TGF-β superfamily and activates the transcription factors SMAD2/3 through the ALK4 type 1 receptor. Activin A has also been shown to activate SMAD1/5/8 through mutated variants of the type 1 receptor ALK2. Interestingly, we here show that both activin A and activin B could activate SMAD1/5/8 through endogenous wild type ALK2 in multiple myeloma cells. Knockdown of the type 2 receptor BMPR2 strongly potentiated activin A- and activin B-induced SMAD1/5/8 activation and subsequent cell death. Furthermore, activity of BMP6, BMP7 or BMP9, which also signal via ALK2, was potentiated by BMPR2 knockdown. Similar results were seen in HepG2 liver carcinoma cells. We propose that BMPR2 inhibited ALK2-mediated signaling by preventing ALK2 from oligomerizing with the type 2 receptors ACVR2A and ACVR2B, necessary for ALK2 activation by activins and several BMPs in these cells. In conclusion, BMPR2 could be explored as a possible target for therapy in patients with multiple myeloma. Summary Statement The activation of SMAD1/5/8 via endogenous wild type ALK2 by activin A, activin B, and certain BMPs was enhanced when BMPR2 levels were knocked down.