Regulation and role of transforming growth factor-beta in immune tolerance induction and inflammation.
Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) is known to mediate pleiotropic functions both inside and outside the immune system. Recent progress in this field underlines the role of TGF-beta in regulatory T (Treg) cells, where it participates in both suppression and differentiation. In addition, recent information highlights the role of TGF-beta in repair responses that lead to matrix deposition and tissue remodelling. Many chronic inflammatory diseases, such as asthma, profit from the suppression of specific immune responses by TGF-beta; however, TGF-beta-mediated tissue remodelling can be a serious complication in such diseases.
Schmidt-Weber
Carsten B
CB
Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research, Obere Strasse 22, CH-7270 Davos, Switzerland. csweber@siaf.unizh.ch
Blaser
Kurt
K
D000818:Animals; D002454:Cell Differentiation / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D007108:Immune Tolerance / Q000276:immunology / Q000502:physiology*; D007249:Inflammation / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism*; D028322:Inhibin-beta Subunits / Q000378:metabolism; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000166:cytology / Q000276:immunology; D016212:Transforming Growth Factor beta / Q000378:metabolism*
D016212:Transforming Growth Factor beta; C103008:inhibin beta A subunit; D028322:Inhibin-beta Subunits