Differential expression and regulation of TGF-ß1, TGF-ß2, TGF-ß3, TGF-ßRI, TGF-ßRII and TGF-ßRIII in cultured human corneal, limbal, and conjunctival fibroblasts

Abstract

TGF-betas auto-induction is the major mechanism upregulating TGF-beta1 expression. Promotion of TGF-beta3 by the TGF-betas may have a special role in HJF. Differential expression and regulation of TGF-betas and TGF-betaRs suggest that each TGF-beta isoform may have specific functions in different ocular surface fibroblasts. No cytokine tested can downregulate TGF-beta1 and the TGF-betaRs.