Growth Factors are a diverse group of signaling proteins that act as essential paracrine or autocrine mediators to regulate fundamental cellular processes, including proliferation, differentiation, and survival pathways. These polypeptides bind to specific transmembrane receptors, initiating intracellular cascades that dictate cell fate and tissue remodeling. They are central to tissue repair, development, and maintaining adult homeostasis. Many growth factors exhibit cross-talk with steroid hormone signaling.
Origin
The nomenclature derives from their observed biological function: promoting the growth and development of tissues and organs. This concept was formalized as researchers identified specific proteins responsible for directing cell division in culture systems. The term emphasizes their role as necessary stimuli for anabolic processes.
Mechanism
Binding of a growth factor ligand to its cognate receptor typically leads to receptor dimerization and autophosphorylation of intracellular tyrosine residues. This activates downstream signaling pathways, most notably the Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway or the Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) cascade. These pathways ultimately influence gene transcription, leading to protein synthesis and cell cycle progression.
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