The transforming growth factor-beta system, a complex pattern of cross-reactive ligands and receptors

Cell. 1987 Feb 13;48(3):409-15. doi: 10.1016/0092-8674(87)90192-9.

Abstract

A new homodimer form of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta), TGF-beta 2, has been identified in porcine blood platelets. TGF-beta 2 is homologous to ordinary TGF-beta (TGF-beta 1), which is also present in platelets. TGF-beta 1.2, a heterodimer containing one TGF-beta 1 chain and one TGF-beta 2 chain, has also been isolated. TGF-beta 1 and TGF-beta 2 interact differently with a family of receptors in target cells. A 280 kd receptor displays high affinity for both TGF-beta 1 and TGF-beta 2. Occupancy of this receptor by TGF-beta 1 or TGF-beta 2 correlates with the ability of these TGF-beta s to inhibit cell proliferation. In contrast, 65 kd and 85 kd receptors have high affinity for TGF-beta 1 but lower affinity for TGF-beta 2. The existence of distinct forms of TGF-beta that interact differently with a family of TGF-beta receptors could provide flexibility to the regulation of tissue growth and differentiation by the TGF-beta system.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acid Sequence
  • Animals
  • Cell Division / drug effects
  • Cell Line
  • Cross Reactions
  • DNA / biosynthesis
  • Humans
  • Peptides / analysis
  • Peptides / immunology
  • Peptides / metabolism*
  • Peptides / pharmacology
  • Receptors, Cell Surface / metabolism*
  • Receptors, Transforming Growth Factor beta
  • Swine
  • Transforming Growth Factors

Substances

  • Peptides
  • Receptors, Cell Surface
  • Receptors, Transforming Growth Factor beta
  • Transforming Growth Factors
  • DNA