Medical applications of transforming growth factor-beta.
Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) proteins and their antagonists have entered clinical trials. These multi-functional regulators of cell growth and differentiation induce extracellular matrix proteins and suppress the immune system making TGF-betas useful in treatment of wounds with impaired healing, mucositis, fractures, ischemia-reperfusion injuries, and autoimmune disease. In diseases such as keloids, glomerulonephritis and pulmonary fibrosis, excessive expression of TGF-beta has been implicated as being responsible for accumulation of detrimental scar tissue. In these conditions, agents that block TGF-beta have prevented or reversed disease. Similarly, in carcinogenesis, blocking TGF-beta activity may be valuable in stimulating an immune response towards metastasis. As these blocking agents receive approval, we will likely have new therapies for previously recalcitrant diseases.
Flanders
Kathleen C
KC
Laboratory of Cell Regulation and Carcinogenesis, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
Burmester
James K
JK
D000818:Animals; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D015427:Reperfusion Injury / Q000188:drug therapy*; D016212:Transforming Growth Factor beta / Q000737:chemistry / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000188:drug therapy*
D016212:Transforming Growth Factor beta