What is the Origin of HGF/c-Met System?

The discovery of HGF and its receptor c-Met originated in cancer research and regenerative medicine, with HGF initially identified as a factor promoting liver cell proliferation. Subsequent molecular studies established c-Met as the high-affinity receptor for HGF, revealing a fundamental signaling axis in cellular biology. The nomenclature reflects the initial identification of HGF as a factor for hepatocytes and c-Met as a proto-oncogene. This system is a master regulator of cell movement and tissue architecture.

What is the Mechanism of HGF/c-Met System?

HGF binding to the extracellular domain of the c-Met receptor causes the receptor to dimerize and undergo autophosphorylation of its intracellular tyrosine kinase domains. This activation recruits and phosphorylates various adaptor proteins, initiating downstream signaling pathways such as the Ras-MAPK, PI3K-Akt, and STAT pathways. These cascades ultimately promote cellular proliferation, survival, motility, and invasion, making the system a master regulator of cell scattering and tissue morphogenesis. The signal transduction is highly complex and tightly regulated.

HGF/c-Met System

Meaning

The HGF/c-Met System is a crucial signaling pathway involving Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF), its cognate receptor c-Met (also known as the mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor), and their complex biological interactions. HGF acts as a pleiotropic growth factor, and c-Met is a receptor tyrosine kinase; their binding initiates a cascade of intracellular signals that govern essential cellular processes. This system is fundamentally involved in embryogenesis, tissue regeneration, wound healing, and organ development. Its dysregulation is also strongly implicated in the progression and metastasis of various cancers, making it a key area of clinical investigation.