The role of transforming growth factor-beta in atherosclerosis.

Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) plays a pivotal role in a range of biological processes, including the control of cellular proliferation and differentiation, regulation of tissue repair and extracellular matrix accumulation, and modulation of the immune and inflammatory responses. The role of TGF-beta in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, which is widely perceived as a form of chronic inflammation, has been the subject of debate for a number of years. A pro-atherogenic role was suspected because of its ability to promote fibrosis and to inhibit endothelial regeneration. However, several recent studies have shown that TGF-beta limits atherosclerosis by modulating a number of processes, including the accumulation of lipids in the vessel wall and the inflammatory response. This review will discuss the role of TGF-beta in atherosclerosis along with the molecular mechanisms underlying its action during the pathogenesis of the disease.