maksakasvutekijät

Maksakasvutekijät, known in English as hepatic growth factors, are a group of signaling molecules that play crucial roles in the development, regeneration, and function of the liver. These factors are primarily proteins that bind to specific receptors on liver cells, initiating intracellular signaling cascades that influence cell growth, differentiation, survival, and metabolism.

Key examples of hepatic growth factors include Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) and Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β). HGF is particularly important for liver regeneration after injury or partial hepatectomy. It stimulates the proliferation of hepatocytes and other liver cells, aiding in the restoration of liver mass and function. TGF-β, on the other hand, has a more complex role. While it can promote liver cell proliferation in certain contexts, it is also known for its anti-proliferative effects and its involvement in fibrogenesis, the process of scar tissue formation in the liver, which can lead to conditions like cirrhosis.

Other growth factors, such as Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) and Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF), also contribute to liver health, influencing processes like bile duct development and vascularization. The intricate interplay between these various hepatic growth factors is essential for maintaining liver homeostasis and responding effectively to damage. Dysregulation of these factors can contribute to the development of liver diseases, including fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Research into hepatic growth factors continues to shed light on liver biology and to explore potential therapeutic targets for liver disorders.