Cell proliferation in tissues, cell fate during embryo development, differentiation, and cell death are all controlled by various signals between cells. The TGF-Beta superfamily is a prominent regulator in these processes, consisting of numerous peptide growth factors like TGF-Beta, BMP (bone morphogenetic protein), and GDF (growth and differentiation factor). Members of the TGF-Beta family are expressed at different times and in tissue-specific forms, playing crucial roles in development, homeostasis, and repair. Immune cells, including B cells, T cells, dendritic cells, and macrophages, secrete TGF-Beta, which in turn regulates the proliferation, differentiation, and activation of immune cells through other cytokines. Therefore, TGF-Beta serves as an effective immunosuppressant, and disruptions in TGF-β signaling are associated with autoimmune diseases, inflammation, and cancer.
