Growth Factor
Growth Factor
A Growth Factor is a naturally occurring substance capable of stimulating cellular growth, proliferation, healing, and cellular differentiation. Usually it is a protein or a steroid hormone. Growth factors are important for regulating a variety of cellular processes.
Types of Growth Factors[edit | edit source]
Growth factors can be classified into several types, including but not limited to:
- Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF)
- Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF)
- Insulin-like Growth Factors (IGFs)
- Nerve Growth Factor (NGF)
- Platelet-derived Growth Factor (PDGF)
- Transforming Growth Factor (TGF)
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF)
Functions of Growth Factors[edit | edit source]
Growth factors are involved in a wide range of cellular functions, such as:
- Cell Proliferation: Growth factors can stimulate the growth and division of cells.
- Cell Differentiation: They can also influence the development of cells into more specialized types.
- Wound Healing: Growth factors play a crucial role in the healing process by stimulating the growth of new tissue.
- Angiogenesis: Some growth factors, like VEGF, can stimulate the formation of new blood vessels.
Clinical Applications[edit | edit source]
Growth factors have potential applications in medicine, such as:
- Regenerative Medicine: Growth factors can be used to stimulate the growth of new tissue in regenerative medicine.
- Cancer Treatment: Some growth factors can be targeted in cancer treatment to inhibit tumor growth.
- Wound Care: Growth factors can be used in wound care to stimulate the healing process.
See Also[edit | edit source]
| Growth Factor Resources | |
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
