TGF-β, Smad3 and the process of progressive fibrosis

Transient adenovirus-mediated gene transfer of active TGF-beta1 (transforming growth factor-beta1) induces severe and progressive fibrosis in rodent lung without apparent inflammation. Alternatively, transfer of IL-1beta (interleukin 1beta) induces marked tissue injury and inflammation, which develops into progressive fibrosis, associated with an increase in TGF-beta1 concentrations in lung fluid and tissue. Both vector treatments induce a …