Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) belong to the superfamily of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and are involved in multi-physiological functions, such as embryogenesis, bone metabolism, hemopoiesis, and neurogenesis. Recent studies suggest that BMPs be also closely associated with the metabolism of glucose, lipid and energy, and take part in the regulation of diabetes and its complications, including diabetic nephropathy, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic vascular lesions, and other processes. Therefore, BMPs can be used to regulate the development of diabetic obesity, and provide a new thought for the future treatment of diabetes.