Transforming growth factor-β in the pathogenesis of breast cancer metastasis and fibrosis

Abstract

Since the discovery and cloning of TGF-_ tremendous scientific effort has led to a so- phisticated understanding of the multifunctional actions of this pleiotropic growth factor. TGF-_ regulates a myriad of processes in normal tissues and in disease pathogenesis. In cancer, TGF-_ often suppress early tumorigenesis and later enhance tumor progres- sion. The pathogenic role of TGF-_ signaling is an attractive target for therapeutical intervention. However, in order to specifically direct therapy to this branch of TGF-__ signaling a deeper understanding of its cellular actions in specific contextual settings is crucial. Several studies are presented in this thesis, which aim at unraveling the molec- ular mechanisms of TGF-_ in the pathogenesis of breast cancer, bone metastasis and in renal fibrosis.