| Literature DB >> 15931280 |
Kathleen C Flanders1, James K Burmester.
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) proteins and their antagonists have entered clinical trials. These multi-functional regulators of cell growth and differentiation induce extracellular matrix proteins and suppress the immune system making TGF-betas useful in treatment of wounds with impaired healing, mucositis, fractures, ischemia-reperfusion injuries, and autoimmune disease. In diseases such as keloids, glomerulonephritis and pulmonary fibrosis, excessive expression of TGF-beta has been implicated as being responsible for accumulation of detrimental scar tissue. In these conditions, agents that block TGF-beta have prevented or reversed disease. Similarly, in carcinogenesis, blocking TGF-beta activity may be valuable in stimulating an immune response towards metastasis. As these blocking agents receive approval, we will likely have new therapies for previously recalcitrant diseases.Entities:
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Year: 2003 PMID: 15931280 PMCID: PMC1069016 DOI: 10.3121/cmr.1.1.13
Source DB: PubMed Journal: Clin Med Res ISSN: 1539-4182