TGFβ Signaling, Joint Development and Homeostasis

Abstract Synovial joint morphogenesis is initiated from a noncartilaginous region known as the interzone. The mechanism by which it is formed is poorly understood, although serial signaling molecules are expressed by the interzone. New discoveries in recent years have revealed the molecular mechanisms of how TGFβ signaling plays an essential role in synovial joint morphogenesis, joint homeostasis and osteoarthritis progression. These findings highlight the relevance of the TGFβ signaling pathway with the target genes in joint homeostasis and OA progression, which can be developed as a potential therapeutic agent for OA.