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TGF- β: an important mediator of allergic disease and a molecule with dual activity in cancer development
Belen Tirado-Rodriguez1, Enrique Ortega2, Patricia Segura-Medina3
1Unidad de Investigación en Enfermedades Oncológicas, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, SS, Dr. Márquez No. 162, Colonia Doctores, Delegación Cuauhtémoc, 06720 México, DF, Mexico.
Abstract:
The transforming growth factor- β (TGF- β ) superfamily is a family of structurally related proteins that includes TGF- β , activins/inhibins, and bone morphogenic proteins (BMPs). Members of the TGF- β superfamily regulate cellular functions such as proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, and migration and thus play key roles in organismal development. TGF- β is involved in several human diseases, including autoimmune disorders and vascular diseases. Activation of the TGF- β receptor induces phosphorylation of serine/threonine residues and triggers phosphorylation of intracellular effectors (Smads). Once activated, Smad proteins translocate to the nucleus and induce transcription of their target genes, regulating various processes and cellular functions. Recently, there has been an attempt to correlate the effect of TGF- β with various pathological entities such as allergic diseases and cancer, yielding a new area of research known as "allergooncology," which investigates the mechanisms by which allergic diseases may influence the progression of certain cancers. This knowledge could generate new therapeutic strategies aimed at correcting the pathologies in which TGF- β is involved. Here, we review recent studies that suggest an important role for TGF- β in both allergic disease and cancer progression.
Insights
Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) impacts cell functions and is linked to diseases. New research explores its role in allergic diseases and cancer progression, opening avenues for novel therapies.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
- Oncology
Background:
- The transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily regulates critical cellular processes like proliferation and differentiation.
- TGF-β signaling is implicated in various human diseases, including autoimmune and vascular conditions.
- The TGF-β pathway involves receptor activation, Smad protein phosphorylation, and subsequent gene transcription.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent studies on the role of TGF-β in allergic diseases and cancer.
- To explore the emerging field of "allergooncology," investigating the link between allergies and cancer progression.
- To highlight the potential for new therapeutic strategies targeting TGF-β-related pathologies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on TGF-β.
- Analysis of research connecting TGF-β to allergic diseases and cancer.
- Synthesis of findings related to the "allergooncology" field.
Main Results:
- TGF-β plays a significant role in regulating cellular functions essential for development.
- Evidence suggests a correlation between TGF-β activity and the progression of both allergic diseases and cancer.
- The "allergooncology" field is identifying mechanisms linking allergic inflammation to cancer development.
Conclusions:
- TGF-β is a key mediator in biological processes and disease pathogenesis.
- Further research into TGF-β's dual role in allergy and cancer is warranted.
- Understanding these mechanisms may lead to innovative therapeutic approaches for complex diseases.
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