Transforming growth factor-beta in pancreatic diseases: Mechanisms and therapeutic potential

摘要

Pancreatic diseases, such as acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, and pancreatic cancer, are common gastrointestinal diseases resulting in the development of local and systemic complications with a high risk of death. Numerous studies have examined pancreatic diseases over the past few decades; however, the pathogenesis remains unclear, and there is a lack of effective treatment options. Recently, emerging evidence has suggested that transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) exerts controversial functions in apoptosis, inflammatory responses, and carcinogenesis, indicating its complex role in the pathogenesis of pancreas-associated disease. Therefore, a further understanding of relevant TGF-beta signalling will provide new ideas and potential therapeutic targets for preventing disease progression. This is the first systematic review of recent data from animal and human clinical studies focusing on TGF-beta signalling in pancreas damage and diseases. This information may aid in the development of therapeutic agents for regulating TGF-beta in this pathology to prevent or treat pancreatic diseases.