TGF-beta and cancer.
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.
Bierie
Brian
B
Department of Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA. brian.bierie@vanderbilt.edu
Moses
Harold L
HL
D000818:Animals; D002471:Cell Transformation, Neoplastic / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000473:pathology*; D018450:Disease Progression; D006801:Humans; D008024:Ligands; D009362:Neoplasm Metastasis; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000209:etiology* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology*; D016212:Transforming Growth Factor beta / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology*
D008024:Ligands; D016212:Transforming Growth Factor beta