TGF-β Signaling in Liver, Pancreas, and Gastrointestinal Diseases and Cancer

Genetic alterations affecting transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) signaling are exceptionally common in diseases and cancers of the gastrointestinal system. As a regulator of tissue renewal, TGF-beta signaling and the downstream SMAD-dependent transcriptional events play complex roles in the transition from a noncancerous disease state to cancer in the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and pancreas. Furthermore, this pathway also regulates the stromal cells and the immune system, which may contribute to evasion of the tumors from immune-mediated elimination. Here, we review the involvement of the TGF-beta pathway mediated by the transcriptional regulators SMADs in disease progression to cancer in the digestive system. The review integrates human genomic studies with animal models that provide clues toward understanding and managing the complexity of the pathway in disease and cancer.

Automated summary

The TGF-beta signaling pathway plays a crucial role in diseases and cancers of the gastrointestinal system, regulating tissue renewal and influencing the transition from noncancerous states to cancer. Additionally, this pathway interacts with stromal cells and the immune system, potentially aiding tumors in evading immune elimination.