This review provides an overview of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) family, a group of 33 genes encoding growth and differentiation factors. TGF-β is a bifunctional regulator that can either inhibit or stimulate cell proliferation, depending on the context. The review highlights the complexity of TGF-β's biological activities and its diverse roles in cell proliferation, differentiation, wound healing, and immune system regulation. It also discusses the signaling pathways involved in TGF-β action, including the Smad proteins, and the context-dependent nature of its effects. The review further explores the implications of TGF-β signaling in diseases such as connective tissue disorders, fibrosis, and cancer, and the potential therapeutic targets for these conditions.This review provides an overview of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) family, a group of 33 genes encoding growth and differentiation factors. TGF-β is a bifunctional regulator that can either inhibit or stimulate cell proliferation, depending on the context. The review highlights the complexity of TGF-β's biological activities and its diverse roles in cell proliferation, differentiation, wound healing, and immune system regulation. It also discusses the signaling pathways involved in TGF-β action, including the Smad proteins, and the context-dependent nature of its effects. The review further explores the implications of TGF-β signaling in diseases such as connective tissue disorders, fibrosis, and cancer, and the potential therapeutic targets for these conditions.