Colony-stimulating factor
Colony-stimulating factor
Colony-stimulating factor (pronunciation: /ˈkɒləni stɪmjuːleɪtɪŋ ˈfæktər/), often abbreviated as CSF, is a type of glycoprotein that functions as a growth factor. The term "colony-stimulating factor" is derived from the protein's ability to stimulate the growth and differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells into colonies of specific blood cells in vitro.
Etymology
The term "colony-stimulating factor" is derived from the protein's ability to stimulate the growth and differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells into colonies of specific blood cells in vitro. The term "colony" refers to the group of cells that are produced as a result of this process, while "stimulating factor" refers to the protein's role in promoting this growth and differentiation.
Types
There are several types of colony-stimulating factors, including:
- Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF)
- Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF)
- Macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF)
Each of these factors stimulates the growth and differentiation of a specific type of blood cell.
Function
Colony-stimulating factors are secreted by various cells in the body, including endothelial cells, macrophages, and fibroblasts. They bind to specific receptors on the surface of hematopoietic stem cells, triggering a series of signal transduction pathways that lead to the growth and differentiation of these stem cells into specific types of blood cells.
Clinical significance
Colony-stimulating factors are used clinically to stimulate the production of blood cells in patients with certain types of anemia, neutropenia, and other conditions that result in a low number of blood cells. They are also used to stimulate the production of blood cells in patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, which can damage the bone marrow and reduce the production of blood cells.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Colony-stimulating factor
- Wikipedia's article - Colony-stimulating factor
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