Introduction to Growth Factor
Growth factors, colloquially recognized as growth-promoting agents, constitute a heterogeneous classification of molecules that exert a pivotal influence in managing cellular mechanisms within the body. These proteinaceous substances have the capacity to combine with receptors located at the cellular surface. Their primary impact involves igniting the processes of cellular proliferation and differentiation, which essentially facilitate the growth and bifurcation of cells into fresh cell entities.
Fig 1. Overall structure of the complex with the ligandbinding domain of the TrkA receptor. (Abdelhakim, et al.; 2020)
Growth factors are instrumental in dictating and moderating a slew of cellular processes which encompass embryonic growth, sexual maturation, wound recuperation, and immune reactions. Functioning as intercellular signaling molecules, they stimulate the functionality of cells and tissues by modulating cell differentiation via alteration in their bio-chemical activity and framing cellular proliferation, which behold a significant role in wound healing and tissue rejuvenation.
Classification of Growth Factor
Growth factors are catalogued based on the induced cellular responses, the targeted cell types, and the activated biochemical pathways. The following represents major classifications:
Epidermal Growth Factors (EGF)
Primarily stimulating the proliferation of epithelial and epidermal cells.
Platelet-Derived Growth Factors (PDGF)
Mandating cell division and survival, predominantly targeting mesenchymal cell types.
Insulin-like Growth Factors (IGF)
Bearing resemblance to insulin in structure, these factors play pivotal roles in growth and development, especially during fetal development.
Fibroblast Growth Factors (FGF)
Conducive to the growth and differentiation of a vast spectrum of cells and tissues such as mesenchymal, neuroectodermal, and endothelial cells.
Neurotrophins
Encapsulating nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and others, this cluster mainly governs the survival and differentiation of neurons.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors (VEGF)
Crucial to the regulation of vasculogenesis, angiogenesis, and lymphangiogenesis.
Transforming Growth Factors (TGF)
Consisting of TGF-α, TGF-β, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), growth differentiation factors (GDFs), and so forth, this family regulates cellular proliferation, wound healing, and immune response.
Colony-Stimulating Factors (CSF)
Expediting the growth and differentiation of bone marrow progenitors of immune cells like granulocytes, macrophages, among others.
Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF)
Facilitating the growth, survival, and migration of hepatocytes along with other epithelial cells.
Interleukins
First identified in white blood cells, these cytokines can stimulate cell proliferation in various immune cells.
It is worth noting, however, that these categorical assignments often reflect the primary identified or most heavily studied function of these growth factors, and it should be recognized that majority of these factors demonstrate a multitude of effects on a diverse array of cell types.
Significance of Growth Factor Characterization
Disease Diagnosis and Biomarker Identification: Variation in the functions of growth factors often signals the onset of numerous pathological conditions encompassing diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular ailments and more. Characterizing these elements not only assists in diagnosing these afflictions but also identifies potential biomarkers for their early detection and effective treatment administration.
Therapeutic Strategies: The elucidation of growth factors fosters the development of therapeutic interventions, enabling the treatment of a broad array of diseases. An archetypal example would be inhibiting tumour growth rate in oncological treatments by specifically targeting these growth factors.
Influencing Research and Development: The characterization of growth factors undeniably contributes to the field of biomedical and biological research, aiding in unraveling the intricate cellular and molecular mechanisms governing human bodily functions.
What Can We Offer?
Our Advantages
Creative Proteomics is recognized as a trailblazer in this field and prides itself on offering a wide range of comprehensive services pertaining to protein drug characterization. Should you require any further information or wish to delve into the multitude of services we provide, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
Reference
- Wiesmann, et al. Crystal structure of nerve growth factor in complex with the ligand-binding domain of the TrkA receptor. Nature. 1999, 401(6749), 184–188.
Related Sections
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Creative Proteomics specializes in protein drug characterization, and we offer a range of services to help our clients understand and optimize their protein drug products. Our services include, but are not limited to:
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ellman's assay,
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