A delicate balance: TGF-beta and the tumor microenvironment.
The activated form of TGF-beta is a known regulator of epithelial cell autonomous tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis. Recent studies have also indicated that TGF-beta mediates interactions between cancer cells and their local tumor microenvironment. Specifically, the loss of TGF-beta signaling in stromal components including fibroblasts and T-cells can result in an "activated" microenvironment that supports and even initiates transformation of adjacent epithelial cells. TGF-beta signaling in cancer can be regulated through mechanisms involving ligand activation and expression of essential components within the pathway including the receptors and downstream effectors. TGF-beta signaling in the tumor microenvironment significantly impacts carcinoma initiation, progression, and metastasis via epithelial cell autonomous and interdependent stromal-epithelial interactions in vivo.
Stover
Daniel G
DG
Department of Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
Bierie
Brian
B
Moses
Harold L
HL
D000818:Animals; D002471:Cell Transformation, Neoplastic / Q000378:metabolism; D004847:Epithelial Cells / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D008648:Mesoderm / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology; D008954:Models, Biological; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology; D016212:Transforming Growth Factor beta / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000502:physiology
D016212:Transforming Growth Factor beta