Pro-metastasis function of TGFβ mediated by the Smad pathway

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

51 Scopus citations

Abstract

The transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling pathway plays a vital role in the development and homeostasis of normal tissues. Abnormal function of this pathway contributes to the initiation and progression of cancer. Smad proteins are key signal transducers of the TGFβ pathway and are essential for the growth suppression function of TGFβ. Smads are bona fide tumor suppressors whose mutation, deletion, and silencing are associated with many types of human cancer. However, the involvement and functional mechanism of Smad proteins in cancer metastasis are poorly defined. Recent studies using genetically modified cancer cells and mouse tumor models have provided concrete evidence for a Smad-dependent mechanism for metastasis promotion by TGFβ. Understanding the dual roles of Smad proteins in tumor initiation and progression has important implications for cancer therapeutics.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1380-1390
Number of pages11
JournalJournal of Cellular Biochemistry
Volume98
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 15 2006

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Molecular Biology
  • Biochemistry
  • Cell Biology

Keywords

  • Metastasis
  • Mouse model
  • Smad
  • TGFβ
  • Tumor progression

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Pro-metastasis function of TGFβ mediated by the Smad pathway'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this