How does TGF-β influence the immune system? This review explores the immunoregulatory properties of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) family of proteins. Every leukocyte lineage produces TGF-β1, controlling differentiation, proliferation, and activation of immune cells in autocrine and paracrine modes. TGF-β modulates adhesion molecule expression, chemotaxis, and leukocyte activity. Increased production and activation of latent TGF-β are associated with immune defects in malignancy, autoimmune disorders, opportunistic infections, and fibrotic complications. TGF-β is established as a key mediator of oral tolerance and a unique subset of effector cells induced during this process. The accumulated knowledge gained through in vitro analyses and in vivo animal models supports the concept that clinical therapies based on modulating this cytokine represent an important new approach to the treatment of disorders of immune function. This understanding can lead to the development of new therapeutic interventions for immune-related diseases.
Published in the Annual Review of Immunology, this paper aligns directly with the journal's focus on comprehensive reviews of immunological topics. The comprehensive analysis of TGF-β's role in immune regulation is aligned with the journal's content. Providing a broad overview of TGF-β makes this a valuable resource for immunologists and researchers.
| Category | Category Repetition |
|---|---|
| Medicine: Internal medicine: Specialties of internal medicine: Immunologic diseases. Allergy | 451 |
| Medicine: Medicine (General) | 447 |
| Science: Biology (General) | 199 |
| Science: Biology (General): Cytology | 148 |
| Medicine | 144 |