Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) isoforms in wound healing and fibrosis

Scar formation, with persistent alteration of the normal tissue structure, is an undesirable and significant result of both wound healing and fibrosing disorders. There are few strategies to prevent or to treat scarring. The transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) superfamily is an important mediator of tissue repair. Each TGF-beta isoform may exert a different effect on wound healing, which may be context-dependent. In particular, TGF-beta 1 may mediate fibrosis in adults' wounds, while TGF-beta 3 may promote scarless healing in the fetus and reduced scarring in adults. Thus, TGF-beta 3 may offer a scar-reducing therapy for acute and chronic wounds and fibrosing disorders.