Abstract
Fibrosis is presented in various physiologic and pathologic conditions of the salivary gland. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) pathway has a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of fibrosis in several organs, including the salivary glands. Among the TGF-β superfamily members, TGF-β1 and 2 are pro-fibrotic ligands, whereas TGF-β3 and some bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are anti-fibrotic ligands. TGF-β1 is thought to be associated with the pro-fibrotic pathogenesis of sialadenitis, post-radiation salivary gland dysfunction, and Sjögren’s syndrome. Potential therapeutic strategies that target multiple levels in the TGF-β pathway are under preclinical and clinical research for fibrosis. Despite the anti-fibrotic effect of BMPs, their in vivo delivery poses a challenge in terms of adequate clinical efficacy. In this article, we will review the relevance of TGF-β signaling in salivary gland fibrosis and advances of potential therapeutic options in the field.
Highlights
The transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway is known for its pivotal role in human health and disease
TGF-β signaling has a pivotal role in fibrosis, including salivary gland fibrosis
Current and potential therapeutic strategies suggested for fibrosis in other organs hint at future therapeutic options for salivary gland fibrosis
Summary
The transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway is known for its pivotal role in human health and disease. Altered TGF-β signaling leads to a wide spectrum of diseases, including fibrosis, autoimmune disease, inflammatory diseases, and cancer [7,8,9]. Exocrine glands that secrete saliva into the oral cavity, are among the many organs in which TGF-β signaling has significance in both physiologic homeostasis and disease. Salivary gland dysfunction is caused by aging, inflammation, infection, physical compression (by tumor or sialolith), medications, radiation therapy for head and neck cancer, and autoimmune disease [10,11]. We will focus on the role of TGF-β signaling in fibrosis of salivary glands and review recent developments relevant to potential therapeutic strategies in the field
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
