Since it was first described as having the ability to inhibit macrophage activation,
transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) has been analyzed for its role in regulating immune
responses to a variety of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, yeast, and protozoa. Most of
the studies have involved organisms that infect macrophages, and this discussion will
attempt to highlight these findings. Perhaps the most work has been performed with
protozoan pathogens, including Trypanosoma cruzi and a variety of Leishmania species, so …