Transforming growth factor beta-I: Structure, function and regulation mechanisms in cancer.

Transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-beta1) is produced by several cell l ineages such as lymphocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells, and its expr ession serves in both autocrine and paracrine modes to control the differen tiation, proliferation, and state of activation of these and other cells. I n general,TGF-beta1 has pleiotropic properties on the immune response durin g the development of infection diseases and cancer; however, the mechanisms of action and regulation of gene expression of this cytokine are poorly un derstood, In this review, the biological properties and the molecular mecha nisms that regulate TGF-beta1 gene expression are described, to understand the role of this cytokine in growth and cell differentiation. The knowledge of molecular mechanisms of gene expression of TGF-beta1 may serve to devel op new cancer therapies. The English version of this paper is available at: http://www.insp.mx/salud/index.html.