Exploring the Complexities of TGF-Beta Signaling in Keloids: Beyond the Classical Smad Pathway

April 2026 in “ International Journal of Molecular Sciences ”

Jiao Mo, Hui Huang, Baochen Zhu, Ruiheng Liao, Wenhua Li, Yange Zhang

TGF-beta Smad pathway MAPK PI3K/Akt fibroblast proliferation chronic inflammation fibrotic environment keloids

Studysummary This study reviews evidence that in keloid development, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) drives fibroblast proliferation and fibrosis not only through the classical Smad-dependent pathway but also via equally important Smad-independent signaling cascades, suggesting these pathways as possible targets for more effective keloid therapies.

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