Study and prospects of transforming growth factor-β induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition on pulmonary fibrosis

Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) plays an essential role in the process of pulmonary fibrosis.TGF-β regulates pulmonary fibrosis by stimulating and activating the high expression of collagen mRNA of fihroblasts,to promote the synthesis of extra cellular matrix and improve the stability of the collagen molecule after transcription.The latest research suggests that TGF-β induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) may be the key mechanisms of pulmonary fibrosis.This article reviews the present condition and prospects of the association between TGF-β induced EMT and pulmonary fibrosis. Key words: pulmonary fibrosis; Transforming growth factor-β; Epithelial-mesenchymal transition; Smad