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Updated: Mar 1, 2026

Studying TGF-β Signaling and TGF-β-induced Epithelial-to-mesenchymal Transition in Breast Cancer and Normal Cells
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Studying TGF-β Signaling and TGF-β-induced Epithelial-to-mesenchymal Transition in Breast Cancer and Normal Cells

Published on: October 27, 2020

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Transforming growth factor-β: A therapeutic target for cancer

Sulsal Haque1, John C Morris1,2

  • 1a Department of Internal Medicine , University of Cincinnati , Cincinnati , OH , USA.

Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics
|June 3, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) has a dual role in cancer, initially suppressing tumors but later promoting progression. Understanding TGF-β

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) is a crucial regulator of cellular processes including growth, differentiation, apoptosis, motility, extracellular matrix production, angiogenesis, and immunity.
  • TGF-β exhibits a paradoxical role in cancer, acting as a tumor suppressor in early stages and a tumor promoter in later stages.
  • Its involvement in tumorigenesis is complex, influencing key mechanisms that drive cancer progression.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the multifaceted mechanisms by which TGF-β contributes to tumorigenesis.
  • To review current and emerging therapeutic strategies targeting the TGF-β pathway for cancer treatment.
  • To highlight the dual role of TGF-β in cancer, from initial suppression to later promotion.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on TGF-β signaling in cancer.
  • Analysis of TGF-β's roles in epithelial to mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, and immunosuppression.
  • Identification and summary of therapeutic interventions targeting the TGF-β pathway.

Main Results:

  • TGF-β promotes tumor progression via epithelial to mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, and immunosuppression in advanced cancers.
  • Early-stage cancer is inhibited by TGF-β, demonstrating its tumor-suppressive functions.
  • The TGF-β pathway presents significant opportunities for novel cancer drug development.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting the TGF-β pathway offers promising therapeutic avenues for various cancers.
  • A deeper understanding of TGF-β's dual role is essential for developing effective cancer therapies.
  • Further research into TGF-β-mediated mechanisms can lead to improved cancer treatment strategies.
Keywords:
Antisense oligonucleotidecancerepithelial-mesenchymal transitionmonoclonal antibodytransforming growth factor-β

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