Transforming Growth Factor-βs and Their Signaling Receptors Are Coexpressed in Crohn's Disease

The concomitant overexpression of TGF-betas and their signaling receptors in CD points to a potential role of these regulatory molecules in the pathophysiology of CD. Activation of TGF-beta-mediated pathways might promote the repair of mucosal injury by enhancing the process of reepithelization, but might also contribute to extracellular matrix generation and subsequently to intramural fibrosis and intestinal obstruction.