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TGF-β signaling in cancer
Shuchen Gu1, Xin-Hua Feng1,2
1Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
Acta Biochimica Et Biophysica Sinica
|August 31, 2018
Summary
Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling has dual roles in cancer, acting as a tumor suppressor early on but promoting progression and metastasis later. Targeting TGF-β pathways offers therapeutic potential for cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily signals regulate critical cellular functions.
- Dysregulation of TGF-β signaling is implicated in numerous diseases, notably cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms and functions of TGF-β signaling in tumor progression.
- To discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting the TGF-β pathway in cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of TGF-β signaling pathways in cancer.
- Analysis of TGF-β's dual roles in tumorigenesis.
Main Results:
- TGF-β exhibits tumor-suppressive functions in early tumorigenesis (cell cycle arrest, apoptosis).
- In late-stage cancer, TGF-β promotes tumor progression, invasiveness, migration, and chemo-resistance.
Conclusions:
- TGF-β signaling presents a complex, context-dependent role in cancer development.
- Targeting TGF-β pathways represents a promising therapeutic strategy for various cancers.
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