TGF-β/Smad Signalling in Neurogenesis: Implications for Neuropsychiatric Diseases

Cells. 2021 Jun 3;10(6):1382. doi: 10.3390/cells10061382.

Abstract

TGF-β/Smad signalling has been the subject of extensive research due to its role in the cell cycle and carcinogenesis. Modifications to the TGF-β/Smad signalling pathway have been found to produce disparate effects on neurogenesis. We review the current research on canonical and non-canonical TGF-β/Smad signalling pathways and their functions in neurogenesis. We also examine the observed role of neurogenesis in neuropsychiatric disorders and the relationship between TGF-β/Smad signalling and neurogenesis in response to stressors. Overlapping mechanisms of cell proliferation, neurogenesis, and the development of mood disorders in response to stressors suggest that TGF-β/Smad signalling is an important regulator of stress response and is implicated in the behavioural outcomes of mood disorders.

Keywords: TGF-β; depression; neurogenesis; smad; stress.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Mood Disorders / metabolism*
  • Nervous System Diseases / metabolism*
  • Signal Transduction*
  • Smad Proteins / metabolism*
  • Transforming Growth Factor beta / metabolism*

Substances

  • Smad Proteins
  • Transforming Growth Factor beta