| abstract |
A novel gene, DD-10, and its encoded polypeptide chain, DD-10, expressed during early onset of morphogen-induced mammalian tissue morphogenesis, now has been discovered. Accordingly, the invention identifies a new gene which is a novel biological marker of cell differentiation and tissue morphogenesis, particularly of chondroblast or osteoblast cell differentiation and bone tissue morphogenesis. Disclosed are: (a) methods and compositions for screening for and producing morphogen analogs; (b) novel morphogen analogs; (c) downstream inducers of morphogenesis; (d) a novel marker for evaluating morphogen or morphogen analog dosing; and (e) therapeutic methods and compositions using these analogs and/or downstream inducers. |