Growth factors

Definition

Growth factors are proteins that play a crucial role in regulating cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation. They act as signaling molecules that bind to specific receptors on the surface of target cells, initiating various intracellular processes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Growth factors are essential for wound healing and tissue repair.
2. They function by binding to cell surface receptors, triggering signal transduction pathways.
3. Different types of growth factors include epidermal growth factor (EGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and nerve growth factor (NGF).
4. Abnormalities in growth factor signaling can lead to diseases such as cancer.
5. Growth factors can also influence cellular responses like apoptosis, migration, and metabolism.

Review Questions

• What is the primary function of growth factors in cell communication?
• How do growth factors initiate a cellular response?
• Name at least two types of growth factors and their roles.

Related terms

Signal Transduction: The process by which a cell converts an extracellular signal into a functional response.

Receptor Tyrosine Kinases: A family of cell surface receptors that mediate the effects of many growth factors.

Apoptosis: A programmed cell death process that is regulated by specific signaling pathways.