Transforming growth factor beta1 is implicated in the pathogenesis of lung fibrosis. It promotes extracellular matrix accumulation by increasing procollagen synthesis and reducing degradation. TGFbeta1 gene and protein expression increase in experimental lung fibrosis, and TGFbeta1 antibodies attenuate fibrosis in mice. The role of other TGFbeta isoforms is unclear. This study aimed to localise TGFbeta1 and TGFbeta3 gene expression in fibrotic human lung and compare it with that in normal human lung.
Centre for Cardiopulmonary Biochemistry & Respiratory Medicine, Royal Free & University College Medical School, University College London, Rayne Institute, London WC1E 6JJ, UK. robina.coker@ic.ac.uk
