Transforming growth factor beta

Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGF-β) is a protein that controls proliferation, cellular differentiation, and other functions in most cells. It is a type of cytokine which plays a crucial role in cell signaling.

Pronunciation

The term is pronounced as Trans-form-ing Growth Fac-tor Be-ta.

Etymology

The term Transforming Growth Factor Beta is derived from its function. Transforming refers to its ability to cause cellular transformation, Growth Factor indicates its role in cell growth and proliferation, and Beta is a designation used in protein nomenclature to differentiate it from other similar proteins.

Function

TGF-β is involved in a variety of biological processes, including cell growth, cell differentiation, apoptosis, cellular homeostasis and other cellular functions. It is secreted by many cell types, including immune cells like T cells and macrophages, and acts by binding to the TGF beta receptor.

Related Terms

• Cytokine
• Cell signaling
• Cellular differentiation
• TGF beta receptor
• Apoptosis
• Cellular homeostasis
• T cells
• Macrophages

See Also

• Growth factor
• Cell biology
• Immunology

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