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Transforming growth factor (TGF) is one of many characterized growth factors that exist in nature. It plays crucial roles in tissue development, cell differentiation, embryonic development as well as numerous other signaling pathways.
Transforming growth factor alpha
The alpha-type transforming growth factor TGF-α is upregulated in some human cancers.
Transforming growth factor beta
The beta-type transforming growth factor TGF-β exists in at least two known subtypes in humans, TGF-β1 and TGF-β2. It is upregulated in some human cancers.
The transforming growth factor receptor
The TGF receptor is part of the mitogen activated protein (MAP) kinase family of receptors. It exists in many different isoforms that can be homo- or heterodimeric. The number of characterized ligands in the TGF superfamily far exceed the number of known receptors, suggesting the promiscuity that exists between ligand and receptor interactions.
TGFR is a seven transmembrane receptor. It can be found in many different tissue types, including brain, heart, kidney, liver and testes. Over expression of TGF can induce renal fibrosis, causing kidney disease as well as diabetes, and ultimately end stage renal disease (ESRD). Recent developments have found that using certain types of protein antagonists against TGF beta receptors can halt, and in some cases reverse, the effects of renal fibrosis.
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