TGF-beta and cancer.

Abstract

TGF-beta signaling regulates tumorigenesis and in human cancer its signaling pathways are often modified during tumor progression. Prior to initiation and early during progression TGF-beta acts upon the epithelium as a tumor suppressor, however at later stages it is often a tumor promoter. Over the years, many studies have focused on the epithelial cell autonomous role for TGF-beta, however, TGF-beta is not strictly limited to this compartment in vivo. Recent studies addressing TGF-beta mediated stromal-epithelial interactions have significantly improved our understanding related to the regulation of cancer. In addition, stromal fibroblast cell autonomous effects have been observed in response to TGF-beta stimulation. According to the current literature and experimental evidence, TGF-beta is a potent ligand that regulates carcinoma initiation, progression and metastasis through a broad and complex spectrum of interdependent interactions.

• Authors: Brian Bierie, Harold L Moses
• Journal: Cytokine & growth factor reviews (Cytokine Growth Factor Rev) 2006 Feb-Apr Vol. 17 Issue 1-2 Pg. 29-40 ISSN: 1359-6101 [Print] England
• PMID: 16289860 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Ligands
• Transforming Growth Factor beta

Topics

• Animals
• Cell Transformation, Neoplastic (metabolism, pathology)
• Disease Progression
• Humans
• Ligands
• Neoplasm Metastasis
• Neoplasms (etiology, metabolism, pathology)
• Transforming Growth Factor beta (metabolism, physiology)