Molecule
TGF-beta1 (Transforming Growth Factor beta 1)
Anti-inflammatory cytokine — paradoxically decreased in POEMS
- Expression change
- Decreased
- Evidence level
- moderate
Role in pathogenesis
TGF-beta1 is an anti-inflammatory cytokine that normally counterbalances pro-inflammatory signals. In POEMS, TGF-beta1 is decreased while pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1beta, IL-6, TNF-alpha) are elevated. This imbalance — weak or decreased antagonistic reaction insufficient to counteract noxious cytokine effects — may explain the multi-organ inflammatory damage.