TGF-beta receptor-binding proteins: complex interactions.
Members of the Smad protein family are fundamental downstream mediators of TGF-beta signals. However, the basic, linear Smad signaling pathway is unlikely to be the sole contributor to the plethora of cell type-specific TGF-beta responses. Investigators have identified a number of molecules that interact with the TGF-beta receptors (TbetaRs) and may explain, at least in part, the tight regulation of TGF-beta effects. Understanding these TbetaR-interacting molecules is thus a matter of great potential significance for elucidating TGF-beta-family signal transduction. The present article reviews our current understanding of the roles and mechanisms of action of this relatively understudied group of molecules.
Runyan
Constance E
CE
Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA. c-runyan@northwestern.edu
Poncelet
Anne-Christine
AC
Schnaper
H William
HW
D000818:Animals; D015870:Gene Expression / Q000235:genetics; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D011485:Protein Binding; D018125:Receptors, Transforming Growth Factor beta / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D015398:Signal Transduction / Q000502:physiology*; D051785:Smad Proteins / Q000378:metabolism*
D018125:Receptors, Transforming Growth Factor beta; D051785:Smad Proteins