TRANSFORMING GROWTH-FACTOR-BETA - POSSIBLE ROLES IN DUPUYTRENS CONTRACTURE

Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) is a multifunctional polype ptide that stimulates extracellular matrix deposition and fibroblast p roliferation. Because both these features characterize Dupuytren's con tracture, we investigated a possible role for TGF-beta in the etiology of this disorder. We studied receptor expression for TGF-beta, effect s of TGF-beta 1 on DNA-synthesis, and in vitro production of TGF-beta 1 and TCF-beta 2 in both normal and Dupuytren-derived fibroblasts. We also studied the effects of epidermal growth factor (ECF) on growth of the different cell types. TGF-beta receptor profiles were different b etween the two cell types, as were TGF-beta 1 and EGF-induced stimulat ion of cell growth. Both cell types secreted both active and latent TG F-beta. Our results suggest that growth factors such as TGF-beta and E CF may play a role in Dupuytren's contracture.