Our data indicate that syndecan‐2 is important for TGFβ signalling in TASCs and regulates TGFβ‐responsive genes Smad7, CTGF, PAI‐1 and CXCR4. TGFβ signalling within the TME contributes to tumour growth and metastasis, and elevated expression of stromal TGFβ in breast, colorectal and prostate cancer is associated with poor prognosis and locally advanced disease.45 The gene discussed is CCN2; the disease is neoplasm.