14-3-3 σ is a new target up-regulated by transforming growth factor-β1 through a Smad3-dependent mechanism

► TGF-β1 induces 14-3-3 σ gene expression in mammary epithelial cells. ► TGF-β1-mediated induction of 14-3-3 σ does not require p53. ► Smad3 is a key transcription regulator of TGF-β1-induced 14-3-3 σ expression.