The differential proliferative response of fetal and adult human skin fibroblasts to TGF-beta is retained when cultured in the presence of fibronectin or collagen

摘要

Background: Transforming growth factor-beta is a multifunctional and pleiotropic factor with decisive role in tissue repair. In this context, we have shown previously that TGF-beta inhibits the proliferation of fetal human skin fibroblasts but stimulates that of adult ones. Given the dynamic reciprocity between fibroblasts, growth factors and extracellular matrix (ECM) in tissue homeostasis, the present study aims to investigate the role of fibronectin and collagen in the proliferative effects of TGF-beta on fetal and adult cells.