A possible link between resveratrol and TGF-β: Resveratrol induction of TGF-β expression and signaling

Resveratrol, a polyphenolic compound found in the skin of red fruits, exhibits anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and anti-proliferative characteristics. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a pleiotropic cytokine that also displays such properties. We therefore hypothesized that there might be a functional link between resveratrol and TGF-β. This study reports that resveratrol increased transcription of the TGF-β2 gene, enhanced the production of TGF-β2 protein, and activated Smad signaling in an autocrine manner in A549 human lung epithelial cell line. Thus, some of the beneficial effects of resveratrol on human health might be mediated, in part, through its effects on TGF-β expression and signaling.