Transforming growth factor beta superfamily (TGF-β superfamily)

The **Transforming growth factor beta superfamily** (TGF-β superfamily) is a large group of secreted, structurally related peptide signaling molecules and growth factors, originally named for its first identified member, transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1)[1][2]. The superfamily encompasses over 33 unique ligands in humans—including TGF-β isoforms, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), growth differentiation factors (GDFs), activins, inhibins, and others—that regulate a wide range of biological processes such as embryonic development, cell proliferation, differentiation, immune system modulation, and tissue homeostasis in many cell types and tissues[1][2][4][5][6]. Members of this family act via conserved transmembrane serine/threonine kinase receptors (such as TGF-β receptors and type I/II BMP receptors), activating canonical (SMAD-dependent) and non-canonical intracellular signaling pathways[2][4]. The TGF-β superfamily is not itself a single targetable molecule or receptor but rather a classification for a family of ligands, many of which are active pharmaceutical and biological research targets with direct disease relevance, particularly in cancer, fibrosis, and developmental disorders[1][6].

Other names

Transforming growth factor-beta familyTGF-beta familyTGF-β familyTGF-beta ligands