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Tumors as organs: biologically augmenting radiation therapy by inhibiting transforming growth factor β activity in

Shisuo Du1, Mary Helen Barcellos-Hoff

  • 1Department of Radiation Oncology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY.

Seminars in Radiation Oncology
|September 10, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) is crucial in normal tissues but also drives tumor growth and radiation resistance. Inhibiting TGFβ may enhance cancer radiation therapy effectiveness.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Cell Biology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) regulates normal physiological processes like development and immunity.
  • Despite its tumor-suppressive roles, TGFβ promotes cancer progression by mediating the tumor microenvironment, including inflammation and angiogenesis.
  • TGFβ signaling is activated early in irradiated tissues and influences DNA damage response.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of TGFβ in cancer treatment, focusing on its dual function as both a suppressor and promoter.
  • To explore the potential of TGFβ pathway inhibition to improve radiation therapy outcomes.
  • To examine TGFβ biology in lung cancer as a model for therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Review of preclinical studies on TGFβ effects in cancer treatment.
  • Analysis of TGFβ signaling pathways in the context of radiation therapy.
  • Examination of TGFβ's role in the tumor microenvironment.

Main Results:

  • TGFβ plays a complex role, acting as a tumor suppressor in normal tissues but promoting cancer progression within the tumor microenvironment.
  • TGFβ signaling is integral to the DNA damage response and is persistently activated in irradiated tissues.
  • Inhibition of the TGFβ pathway presents a potential strategy to enhance the efficacy of radiation therapy.

Conclusions:

  • TGFβ's multifaceted role in cancer necessitates targeted therapeutic strategies.
  • Inhibiting the TGFβ pathway is a promising approach to augment radiation therapy for cancer treatment.
  • Further research into TGFβ biology, particularly in lung cancer, can guide the development of novel pharmaceutical interventions.

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