Transforming Growth Factor β3 (TGF-β3) Signaling: A Potential Target for Cancer Therapy.

Abstract

Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling is essential for early embryonic development, tissue and organ formation, immune surveillance, tissue repair, and maintaining homeostasis in adults. The three isoforms of TGF-β, TGF-β1/2/3, share a structurally conserved secretion signal peptide and activate various downstream signaling pathways. While much research has focused on TGF-β1, there is increasing recognition of the important roles that TGF-β3 plays in cancer biology. TGF-β3 exhibits dual functions. It can inhibit tumors in the early stages of cancer but can promote tumor growth in more advanced stages. Understanding the unique characteristics of TGF-β3 is crucial for unraveling the complexities of tumor development and the tumor microenvironments. Targeting TGF-β signaling is considered a promising strategy for cancer treatment, and developing drugs aimed at TGF-β3 holds significant potential. In the future, TGF-β3 targeted therapies are expected to gain more attention as a means to enhance therapeutic outcomes and address poor prognoses in cancer patients.