The TGF-beta superfamily, encompassing molecules such as TGFs, activins, BMPs, GDFs, and Nodals, represents the largest family of growth and differentiation factors, playing crucial roles in developmental and physiological processes across animal species. These molecules are integral to tissue homeostasis and cell fate determination. Among them, TGF-beta is particularly noted for its regulatory influence on immune responses and tissue fibrosis. Recent research has expanded our understanding of the immune functions of other superfamily members, including activin A and BMPs. These molecules signal through receptor complexes composed of type I and II serine/threonine kinase receptors, which activate Smads and initiate transcription. The functional diversity of TGF-beta superfamily ligands is attributed to the varied combinations of receptor complexes and the interaction of Smads with numerous transcription factors and co-regulators. Despite growing evidence of their roles in immune responses, the involvement of these cytokines in diseases, especially infectious diseases, remains underexplored. This gap is partly due to the embryonic lethality of gene deletions and the challenges in detecting their roles through transcriptomic approaches. However, advancements in genetic technologies, such as CRISPR/Cas9 and specific inhibitors, offer promising avenues to uncover novel functions of these molecules.

This research topic aims to elucidate the roles of TGF-beta superfamily members in immune homeostasis and disease. The primary objectives include investigating the signaling pathways of these molecules, understanding their modulation of immune responses, and exploring their involvement in various diseases. Specific questions to be addressed include the mechanisms by which these cytokines influence immune responses and their potential roles in infectious diseases, autoimmunity, allergy, inflammation, and cancer. The research will also test hypotheses regarding the therapeutic targeting of TGF-beta superfamily molecules for disease treatment.

To gather further insights into the complex roles of TGF-beta superfamily members in immunity and disease, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Signaling pathways of TGF-beta superfamily members
- Modulation of immune responses by TGF-beta superfamily members
- Roles of TGF-beta superfamily members in infectious disease, autoimmunity, allergy, inflammation, and cancer
- Tools and models for investigating functions of TGF-beta superfamily members
- Profiles of TGF-beta superfamily expression in different diseases
- Targeting of TGF-beta superfamily molecules for host-directed therapy, such as cancer immunotherapy

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Frontiers in Immunology

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