The Functions and Mechanisms of TGF-β3 Signaling in Controlling the Fate Determinations of Various Types of Stem Cells
February 2026
in “
Journal of Cellular Physiology
”
Studysummary This review discusses how TGF-β3 influences fate decisions of various stem cell types, highlighting its role in proliferation, differentiation, and cell death through classical and non-classical signalling pathways. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
This review article explores the role of TGF-β3 in determining the fate of various stem cells, including neural, haematopoietic, odontogenic, hair-follicle, adipose-derived, and mesenchymal stem cells. TGF-β3 influences stem cell development through integrin-dependent and independent pathways, affecting proliferation, differentiation, and cell death. The effects of TGF-β3 are highly dependent on cell type and conditions, involving classical Smad and non-classical pathways. The review highlights the complexity of TGF-β3's role and suggests potential targets for future therapeutic interventions in human diseases. No conflicts of interest were reported, and data supporting the findings are available upon request.
