TGF or transforming growth factor is categorized into two classes: alpha and beta. TGFs are proteins secreted by transformed cells that are able to stimulate growth in normal cells. For this reason, they are also called tumor growth factors. Both classes of TGFs are not really related to each other either structurally or genetically and they act through completely different mechanisms. However, they both have similar functions. Transforming growth factor alpha binds to epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR) while transforming growth factor beta is found in hematopoietic tissue. Transforming growth factor alpha is a small protein that is 50 amino acids in length. High amounts of TGFa are characteristic in cancers but also play a role in healing wounds. Transforming growth factor beta is a regulatory cytokine whose main function is to maintain tolerance by regulating lymphocyte proliferation, differentiation, and survival.

Anti-BMPR1A antibody binds against bone morphogenetic protein receptor type 1A. BMPR1A forms a receptor complex consisting of four transmembrane serine/threonine kinases. BMPR1A is localized in the cell membrane and expressed in the skeletal muscle. Defects in bone morphogenetic protein receptor type 1A are the cause of juvenile polyposis syndrome and hereditary mixed polyposis syndrome 2. Juvenile polyposis syndrome is characterized by the multiple polyps in the gastrointestinal tract of a child or young adult. These polyps arise from abnormal growths in the mucous membrane. Hereditary mixed polyposis syndrome 2 is a very rare inherited cancer predisposition syndrome characterized by a considerable amount of polyps in the large intestine and rectum which causes many of the affected individuals to develop colorectal cancer. Anti-BMP5 antibody binds against the target bone morphogenetic protein 5. BMP 5 induces cartilage and bone formation. BMP5 is secreted by cells and expressed in the lung and liver. BMPs may also play a role in certain cancers.