Pathway of the Month
TGF-² Signaling and the Role of Inhibitory Smads in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

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Abstract

The signaling pathway mediated by transforming growth factor-² (TGF-²) participates in various biologic processes, including cell growth, differentiation, angiogenesis, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix remodeling. In the context of cancer, TGF-² signaling can inhibit tumor growth in early-stage tumors. However, in late-stage tumors, the very same pathway promotes tumor invasiveness and metastasis. This paradoxical effect is mediated through similar to mothers against decapentaplegic or Smad protein dependent and independent mechanisms and provides an opportunity for targeted cancer therapy. This review summarizes the molecular process of TGF-² signaling and the changes in inhibitory Smads that contribute to lung cancer progression. We also present current approaches for rational therapies that target the TGF-² signaling pathway in cancer.

Keywords

TGF-² signaling
Smads
Non-small cell lung cancer survival
Target-based therapy

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The authors declare no conflict of interest.