Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-beta) is a protein that plays a crucial role in regulating various cellular processes, including cell growth, differentiation, and immune responses. It is involved in wound healing and tissue repair, helping to control inflammation and promote the formation of new tissue. TGF-beta exists in several forms and interacts with specific receptors on cell surfaces to initiate signaling pathways. This signaling can influence the behavior of many cell types, including fibroblasts, immune cells, and epithelial cells, making it essential for maintaining normal physiological functions and contributing to disease processes when dysregulated.