TGF-beta3: A promising growth factor in engineered organogenesis.

BACKGROUND

Engineered organogenesis is one of the most challenging areas on the cutting edge of regenerative medicine. Growth factors can affect cell proliferation, migration and differentiation profoundly, and thus play a critical role in tissue regeneration. TGF-betas produce a wide range of effects in different cells and tissues. TGF-beta3 is relatively recently discovered and studied.

OBJECTIVE

To provide a broader understanding of the current state of TGF-beta3 in engineered osteogenesis, chondrogenesis, palate development, scar-free wound healing, odontogenesis and neurogenesis.

METHODS

This review summarizes studies that explore or apply TGF-beta3 for organogenesis with engineering methodology and a regenerative medical perspective.

RESULTS/CONCLUSION: TGF-beta3 has proven to be a competent growth factor in engineered organogenesis in vitro. In recent years, using TGF-beta3, more and more in vivo studies have yielded significant therapeutic achievements in animal models, which bear much promise for future medical application.