On ligand binding, forms a receptor complex consisting of two type II and two type I transmembrane serine/threonine kinases. Type II receptors phosphorylate and activate type I receptors which autophosphorylate, then bind and activate SMAD transcriptional regulators. Can also mediate signaling through the activation of the p38MAPK cascade (PubMed:12045205). Binds to BMP7, BMP2 and, less efficiently, BMP4. Binding is weak but enhanced by the presence of type I receptors for BMPs. Mediates induction of adipogenesis by GDF6.
