Work

TGFβ signaling in cartilage development and maintenance

Year: 2014

Type: review

Abstract: Members of the transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) superfamily of secreted factors play essential roles in nearly every aspect of cartilage formation and maintenance. However, the mechanisms by which TGFβs transduce their effects in cartilage in vivo remain poorly understood. Mutations in several TGFβ family members, their receptors, extracellular modulators, and intracellular transducers have been described, and these usually impact the development of the cartilaginous skeleton. Furthermore, genome-wide association studies have linked components of the (TGFβ) superfamily to susceptibility to osteoarthritis. This review focuses on recent discoveries from genetic studies in the mouse regarding the regulation of TGFβ signaling in developing growth plate and articular cartilage, as well as the different modes of crosstalk between canonical and noncanonical TGFβ signaling. These new insights into TGFβ signaling in cartilage may open new prospects for therapies that maintain healthy articular cartilage.

Source: Birth Defects Research Part C Embryo Today Reviews

DOI: 10.1002/bdrc.21058

Authors: Weiguang Wang, Diana Rigueur, Karen M. Lyons

Institutions: University of California, Los Angeles, Orthopaedic Institute for Children

Language: English

Topic: Osteoarthritis Treatment and Mechanisms

Subfield: Rheumatology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funder: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases