SMAD2 is a key protein in the TGF-尾 signaling pathway, which plays a crucial role in regulating various cellular processes such as cell growth, differentiation, and immune responses. When TGF-尾 binds to its receptors, it activates the receptor complex, leading to the phosphorylation of SMAD2. Phosphorylated SMAD2 then forms a complex with SMAD4 and other cofactors, acting as a transcription factor to regulate gene expression. This pathway is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis, but dysregulation of SMAD2 and TGF-尾 signaling has been implicated in diseases such as fibrosis, cancer, and atherosclerosis.