TGF-? and restenosis revisited: a Smad link.

ABSTRACT: Despite novel surgical therapies for the treatment of atherosclerosis, restenosis continues to be a significant impediment to the long-term success of vascular interventions. Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-?), a family of cytokines found to be up-regulated at sites of arterial injury, has long been implicated in restenosis; a role that has largely been attributed to TGF-?-mediated vascular fibrosis. However, emerging data indicate that the role of TGF-? in intimal thickening and arterial remodeling, the critical components of restenosis, is complex and multidirectional. Recent advancements have clarified the basic signaling pathway of TGF-?, making evident the need to redefine the precise role of this family of cytokines and its primary signaling pathway, Smad, in restenosis. Unraveling TGF-? signaling in intimal thickening and arterial remodeling will pave the way for a clearer understanding of restenosis and the development of innovative pharmacological therapies.

SUBMITTER: Suwanabol PA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3077463 | biostudies-other | 2011 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-other