Several major conceptual problems regarding specific in vivo functions of the TGF-beta family members remain the key focus of many researchers studying the biology of these secreted signaling molecules. More than 45 members of this family of growth factors have been identified and partially characterized for their molecular roles in numerous processes such as cell proliferation and differentiation, embryonic development, carcinogenesis, immune dysfunction, inflammation and wound healing. The high degree of similarity that exists at the structural level among the isoforms of these growth factors is accompanied by a significant overlap in function, as defined by many in vitro model systems and in vivo systems involving administration of exogenous ligand or of ligand-specific blocking antibodies. The ability to discern the critical functions of these molecules based on patterns of expression has also often been quite difficult. The evolution of more sophisticated functional genomics approaches has been recently instrumental in generating unique perspectives into the mechanisms governing the activity of the members of the TGF-beta family. The studies outlined in this review are significant in that they not only support working hypotheses regarding the activities of TGF-beta generated through extensive in vitro studies but also raise new questions regarding the role of each isoform in numerous processes. With the rapid advances in these approaches to probe activity in a more cell and time-dependent fashion, we will gain valuable insights for designing approaches for targeting the complex cellular pathways mediating their responses and will also help us develop novel therapies to treat disease processes.
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http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1566524024605699 | DOI Listing |
Plast Reconstr Surg
December 2024
Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205.
Background: Nerve wraps composed of various autologous and bioengineered materials have been used to bolster nerve repair sites. In this study, we describe the novel use of autologous fascia nerve wraps (AFNW) as an adjunct to epineurial repair and evaluate their effect on inflammatory cytokine expression, intraneural collagen deposition and end-organ reinnervation in rats and use of AFNW in a patient case series.
Methods: Lewis rats received sciatic transection with repair either with or without AFNW, sciatic-to-common peroneal nerve transfer with or without AFNW, or sham surgery (n=14/group).
Sci Rep
December 2024
Department of Anthropology, University of South Florida, 4202 E. Fowler Ave. SOC107, Tampa, FL, 33620, USA.
Milk anti-inflammatory compounds are ubiquitous in milk but vary greatly within and between populations. The causes of this variation and how this variation impacts infant phenotype is not well-characterized. The goal of this study was to explain how maternal characteristics across two disparate populations impact the levels of TGF-β2 and IL-1ra in human milk.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFGenes Genomics
December 2024
Department of Urology, Meizhou People's Hospital, Meizhou Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 63, Huang Tang Road, Meizhou, 514031, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China.
Background: Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) represents a common renal carcinoma subtype influenced by the immune microenvironment. LIM and SH3 Protein 2 (LASP2), an actin-binding protein within the nebulin family, contributes to cellular immunity and adhesion mechanisms.
Objective: This study aimed to clarify the immunological and prognostic relevance of LASP2 in ccRCC.
Cell Death Dis
December 2024
University of Zürich, Institute of Anatomy, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland.
The TGFβ signaling pathway is known for its pleiotropic functions in a plethora of biological processes. In melanoma, TGFβ signaling promotes invasiveness and metastasis formation. However, its involvement in the response to therapy is controversial.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFMedicine (Baltimore)
December 2024
Xuzhou Clinical College of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China.
Rationale: The aim of this study is to investigate the de novo mutation and clinical features of latent transforming growth factor-beta-binding protein 3 (LTBP3) gene-associated geleophysic dysplasia 3, and possible mechanisms of action.
Patient Concerns: A nonconsanguineous couple was recruited for this study due to the presence of intrauterine growth restriction. The pregnant woman and her elder daughter presented with skeletal abnormalities with diabetes.
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