Phenotypic Modulation of Human Urinary Tract Stroma-derived Fibroblasts by Transforming Growth Factor β3

TGFβ3 treatment causes a time-specific response in the presence of serum, whereby fibroblasts initially proliferate and subsequently differentiate to a smooth muscle-like phenotype. This sequence was associated with stabilization of [Ca2+]i stores, suggesting a role in the induction of hyperplasia and reduction of contractility; phenomena associated with a number of urinary tract pathologies.