Differential Expression of TGF-β Isoforms in Human Kerationocytes by Narrow Band UVB

Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), a multifunctional growth factor, has three isoforms: TGF-β1, TGF-β2, and TGF-β3. Different isoforms of TGF-β are associated with different proliferation and differentiation states of the epidermis. Narrow band ultraviolet B (NBUVB) emits a concentrated UVB source of 311 nm. NBUVB 1,000 mJ/cm(2) induces apoptosis in approximately 50% of keratinocytes.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether irradiation with NBUVB would alter the expression and production of TGF-β1, 2, and 3.

We measured TGF-β1, 2, and 3 mRNA and TGF-β1 and 2 protein levels at 800, 1,000, and 1,200 mJ/cm(2) for 24 hours and 48 hours.

TGF-β1 mRNA levels were increased at both 24 hr and 48 hr, TGF-β2 mRNA levels were decreased at both 24 hr and 48 hr, and TGF-β3 mRNA levels were increased at 24 hr and similar to control at 48 hr. TGF-β1 protein levels were increased at 48 hr but decreased at 24 hr. TGF-β2 protein levels were decreased at both 24 hr and 48 hr.

The results suggest a possible role for TGF-β1 after NBUVB irradiation and opposing roles for TGF-β1 and TGF-β2 isoforms in NBUVB irradiation.