Betaglycan: A multifunctional accessory

Betaglycan is a co-receptor for the TGF beta superfamily, particularly important in establishing the potency of its ligands on their target cells. In recent years, new insights have been gained into the structure and function of betaglycan, expanding its role from that of a simple co-receptor to include additional ligand-dependent and ligand-independent roles. This review focuses on recent advances in the betaglycan field, with a particular emphasis on its newly discovered actions in mediating the trafficking of TGF beta superfamily receptors and as a determinant of the functional output of TGF beta superfamily signalling. In addition, this review encompasses a discussion of the emerging roles of the betaglycan/inhibin pathway in reproductive cancers and disease. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.