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TGF-β Superfamily Signaling in the Eye: Implications for Ocular Pathologies

Soumaya Hachana1,2, Bruno Larrivée1,2

  • 1Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC H1T 2M4, Canada.

Cells
|August 12, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling is vital for eye development and health. Dysregulation of TGF-β contributes to various eye diseases, suggesting therapeutic potential.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Developmental Biology

Background:

  • Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling is essential for ocular development and tissue homeostasis.
  • Dysregulation of TGF-β is implicated in numerous eye pathologies, affecting angiogenesis, inflammation, and fibrosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the critical roles of TGF-β family members in normal eye physiology.
  • To examine the involvement of TGF-β signaling in various ocular diseases.
  • To discuss therapeutic strategies targeting TGF-β signaling for eye conditions.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on TGF-β signaling in ocular physiology and pathology.
  • Analysis of experimental models for eye diseases involving TGF-β.
  • Synthesis of current knowledge on TGF-β-targeted therapeutic approaches.

Main Results:

  • TGF-β signaling regulates key ocular processes like angiogenesis and neurogenesis.
  • Aberrant TGF-β signaling contributes to conditions such as corneal neovascularization, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and fibrosis.
  • Modulating TGF-β signaling shows promise for treating diverse eye diseases.

Conclusions:

  • TGF-β signaling is a critical regulator in the eye, with its dysregulation linked to significant pathologies.
  • Targeting TGF-β pathways offers a promising avenue for developing novel treatments for various blinding eye diseases.
Keywords:
BMPTGF-βage-related macular degenerationocular diseases

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