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Updated: Apr 6, 2026

Studying TGF-β Signaling and TGF-β-induced Epithelial-to-mesenchymal Transition in Breast Cancer and Normal Cells
Published on: October 27, 2020
[Advances of transforming growth factor-β inhibitors]
Abstract:
Transforming growth factor-β is an important cytokine with various bioactivities, including embryonic development, wound healing, chemotaxis and cell cycle regulation. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the main pathway of tumor cell to obtain the ability of invasion and metastasis. The TGF-β is the key factor known to induce EMT in cancer cells and plays an important role in the process. In recent years, some progress has been obtained. Some TGF-β inhibitors have approved in the market or in clinical trials. TGF-β inhibitors can play an important role on the treatment of tumors, glaucoma, liver and kidney fibrosis disease and scar repair. Novel TGF-β inhibitors reported in recent years were reviewed in this article.
Insights
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is crucial for cell functions and cancer metastasis. Novel TGF-β inhibitors show promise for treating various diseases, including cancer and fibrosis.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- Oncology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a key cytokine regulating cellular processes like development and wound healing.
- Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), induced by TGF-β, is critical for tumor invasion and metastasis.
- TGF-β signaling is implicated in various pathologies, including cancer, fibrosis, and scarring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in the development of novel TGF-β inhibitors.
- To highlight the therapeutic potential of TGF-β inhibitors across diverse medical conditions.
- To provide an overview of the current landscape of TGF-β inhibitor research and clinical applications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent scientific publications and clinical trial data.
- Analysis of studies focusing on novel TGF-β inhibitor mechanisms and therapeutic efficacy.
- Synthesis of information on approved and investigational TGF-β inhibitors.
Main Results:
- Several TGF-β inhibitors are approved or in clinical trials for various diseases.
- TGF-β inhibitors demonstrate significant potential in treating tumors, fibrosis, and promoting scar repair.
- Recent research has identified novel inhibitors with promising therapeutic profiles.
Conclusions:
- TGF-β inhibitors represent a significant therapeutic strategy for a range of diseases.
- Targeting TGF-β signaling offers a promising avenue for cancer treatment and managing fibrotic conditions.
- Continued research into novel TGF-β inhibitors is essential for expanding their clinical utility.
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