Growth factors
Growth Factors
Growth factors (pronunciation: /ˈɡroʊθ ˈfæk.tər/) are a group of proteins that stimulate cell growth, proliferation, healing, and differentiation. They are important in a wide range of biological processes, from embryonic development to wound healing.
Etymology
The term "growth factor" is derived from the English words "growth", which means the process of increasing in size, and "factor", which refers to a circumstance, fact, or influence that contributes to a result.
Types of Growth Factors
There are several types of growth factors, each with its own specific function. Some of the most important ones include:
- Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF): This protein stimulates cell growth and differentiation by binding to its receptor, EGFR.
- Fibroblast Growth Factors (FGFs): These factors are involved in a variety of biological processes, including embryonic development, cell growth, morphogenesis, tissue repair, and tumor growth.
- Insulin-like Growth Factors (IGFs): These proteins are similar to insulin in function and structure and are involved in the regulation of cell growth and development.
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF): This factor is important in angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels.
Role in Medicine
Growth factors play a crucial role in medicine, particularly in the fields of oncology, cardiology, and regenerative medicine. They are used in therapies for various diseases and conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, and wound healing.
In oncology, growth factors are used to stimulate the growth of blood cells in patients undergoing chemotherapy. In cardiology, they are used to stimulate the growth of new blood vessels in patients with heart disease. In regenerative medicine, growth factors are used to stimulate the growth and differentiation of stem cells into various types of cells.
Related Terms
- Cytokines: These are a broad and loose category of small proteins that are important in cell signaling.
- Hormones: These are the signaling molecules produced by glands in multicellular organisms that are transported by the circulatory system to target distant organs to regulate physiology and behavior.
- Receptors: These are proteins to which one or more specific kinds of signaling molecules may attach.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Growth factors
- Wikipedia's article - Growth factors
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