Transforming growth factor β signaling pathway: A promising therapeutic target for cancer

Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) is part of the transforming growth factor beta superfamily which is involved in many physiological processes and closely related to the carcinogenesis. Here, we discuss the TGF-beta structure, function, and its canonical Smads signaling pathway. Importantly, TGF-beta has been proved that it plays both tumor suppressor as well as an activator role in tumor progression. In an early stage, TGF-beta inhibits cell proliferation and is involved in cell apoptosis. In an advanced tumor, TGF-beta signaling pathway induces tumor invasion and metastasis through promoting angiogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and immune escape. Furthermore, we are centered on updated research results into the inhibitors as drugs which have been studied in preclinical or clinical trials in tumor carcinogenesis to prevent the TGF-beta synthesis and block its signaling pathways such as antibodies, antisense molecules, and small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Thus, it is highlighting the crucial role of TGF-beta in tumor therapy and may provide opportunities for the new antitumor strategies in patients with cancer.