TGF-BETA - AN UPDATE FOR THE NEPHROLOGIST

TGF beta is a ubiquitous multifunctional cytokine produced by a wide v ariety of cells; its amino acid sequence indicates a marked conservati on across species. Five iso forms have been identified, three of which , TGF beta 1, 2, 3, in mammals. It is secreted in a biologically laten t form and is then activated by physiological mechanisms which are sti ll poorly characterized. TGF beta is known as a regulator of cell grow th, differentiation and proliferation, but exerts also a light control over extracellular matrix synthesis. Although TGF beta has been found to have a beneficial role in connective tissue and bone repair proces ses, its overexpression could lead to fibrosis and fibroproliferative diseases. TGF beta is also involved in kidney fibrogenesis and new pat hways aimed at preventing glomerulosclerosis and interstitial fibrosis using TGF beta-inhibitors are new topics of research.