TGF-beta and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transitions.

Area of Science:

• Cell biology
• Molecular biology
• Developmental biology

Background:

• Epithelial cells exhibit remarkable phenotype plasticity, essential for morphogenesis, repair, and tumor invasiveness.
• Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an advanced form of epithelial plasticity, critical for understanding various physiological and pathological processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the distinct physiological contexts of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT).
• To elucidate the molecular signaling networks controlled by transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) in regulating EMT.
• To highlight the importance of understanding EMT for developing therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on epithelial plasticity and EMT.
• Analysis of molecular signaling pathways activated by TGF-beta.
• Integration of signaling networks involving transcriptional regulators.

Main Results:

• Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) family members initiate and maintain EMT across diverse biological systems.
• TGF-beta activates major signaling pathways and transcriptional regulators, forming complex networks.
• Distinct physiological contexts of EMT are influenced by specific TGF-beta-mediated signaling.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive understanding of TGF-beta's role in EMT is vital for therapeutic development.
• Targeting TGF-beta signaling pathways offers potential for controlling EMT in disease.
• Further research into the intricate signaling networks governing EMT is warranted.