Abstract
In the present study, we show that transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) was frequently overexpressed in human head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) and adjacent tissues in comparison with normal head and neck tissues. To determine the role of TGF-β1 overexpression in HNSCC carcinogenesis, we generated transgenic mice in which TGF-β1 transgene expression can be induced in head and neck epithelia. TGF-β1 transgene induction in head and neck epithelia, at levels similar to those in human HNSCCs, caused severe inflammation and angiogenesis. Consequently, TGF-β1-transgenic epithelia exhibited hyperproliferation. These phenotypes correlated with enhanced Smad signaling in transgenic epithelia and stroma. Our study suggests that TGF-β1 overexpression at early stages of HNSCC formation provides a tumor promoting microenvironment.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 4405-4410 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Cancer Research |
Volume | 64 |
Issue number | 13 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jul 1 2004 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Oncology
- Cancer Research