Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are cytokines with a strong effect on bone and cartilage growth and with important roles during embryonic patterning and early skeletal formation. BMPs have promising potential for clinical bone and cartilage repair, working as powerful bone‐inducing components in diverse tissue‐engineering products. Synthetic polymers, natural origin polymers, inorganic materials and composites may be used as carriers for the delivery of BMPs. Carriers range from nanoparticles to complex three‐dimensional (3D) scaffolds, membranes for tissue‐guided regeneration, biomimetic surfaces and smart thermosensitive hydrogels. Current clinical uses include spinal fusion, healing of long bone defects and craniofacial and periodontal applications, amongst others. BMP‐2 and BMP‐7 have recently received approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for specific clinical cases, delivered in absorbable collagen sponges. Considering the expanding number of publications in the field of BMPs, there are prospects of a brilliant future in the field of regenerative medicine of bone and cartilage with the use of BMPs. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Discovered in 1965, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are a group of cytokines from the transforming growth factor‐β (TGFβ) superfamily with significant roles in bone and cartilage formation. BMPs are used as powerful osteoinductive components of diverse tissue‐engineering products for the healing of bone. Several BMPs with different physiological roles have been identified in humans. The purpose of this review is to cover the biological function of the main members of BMP family, the latest research on BMPs signalling pathways and advances in the production of recombinant BMPs for tissue engineering purposes. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

This review highlights the use of enzymes in the textile industry, covering both current commercial processes and research in this field. Amylases have been used for desizing since the middle of the last century. Enzymes used in detergent formulations have also been successfully used over the past 40 years. The application of cellulases for denim finishing and laccases for decolourization of textile effluents and textile bleaching are the most recent commercial advances. New developments rely on the modification of natural and synthetic fibres. Advances in enzymology, molecular biology and screening techniques provide possibilities for the development of new enzyme-based processes for a more environmentally friendly approach in the textile industry.