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The functional multipotency of transforming growth factor β signaling at the intersection of senescence and cancer
Justyna Mikuła-Pietrasik1, Szymon Rutecki1, Krzysztof Książek2
1Department of Pathophysiology of Ageing and Civilization Diseases, Długa ½ Str, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, 61-848, Poznań, Poland.
Abstract:
The transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) family of cytokines comprises a group of proteins, their receptors, and effector molecules that, in a coordinated manner, modulate a plethora of physiological and pathophysiological processes. TGF-β1 is the best known and plausibly most active representative of this group. It acts as an immunosuppressant, contributes to extracellular matrix remodeling, and stimulates tissue fibrosis, differentiation, angiogenesis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. In recent years, this cytokine has been established as a vital regulator of organismal aging and cellular senescence. Finally, the role of TGF-β1 in cancer progression is no longer in question. Because this protein is involved in so many, often overlapping phenomena, the question arises whether it can be considered a molecular bridge linking some of these phenomena together and governing their reciprocal interactions. In this study, we reviewed the literature from the perspective of the role of various TGF-β family members as regulators of a complex mutual interplay between senescence and cancer. These aspects are then considered in a broader context of remaining TGF-β-related functions and coexisting processes. The main narrative axis in this work is centered around the interaction between the senescence of normal peritoneal cells and ovarian cancer cells. The discussion also includes examples of TGF-β activity at the interface of other normal and cancer cell types.
Insights
Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) links cellular senescence and cancer progression. This review explores TGF-β
Area of Science:
- Cellular Biology
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) family influences numerous physiological and pathological processes.
- TGF-β1 is a key cytokine involved in immunosuppression, extracellular matrix remodeling, fibrosis, differentiation, angiogenesis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition.
- TGF-β1 is increasingly recognized as a critical regulator of aging, cellular senescence, and cancer progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on the role of TGF-β family members in regulating the interplay between senescence and cancer.
- To examine TGF-β as a potential molecular bridge connecting senescence, aging, and cancer.
- To focus on the interaction between peritoneal cell senescence and ovarian cancer.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on TGF-β family members.
- Analysis of TGF-β's role in senescence and cancer.
- Examination of TGF-β's broader functions and coexisting processes.
Main Results:
- TGF-β family members are regulators of the complex interplay between senescence and cancer.
- TGF-β1 is implicated in linking senescence and cancer progression.
- Specific focus on the interaction between normal peritoneal cells and ovarian cancer cells.
Conclusions:
- TGF-β family members play a crucial role in modulating the relationship between cellular senescence and cancer.
- Understanding TGF-β's function is key to deciphering the molecular links between aging and cancer.
- Further research into TGF-β's role in specific cell types, like peritoneal and ovarian cells, is warranted.
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