Polypeptide growth factors: Some structural and mechanistic considerations

Abstract

Polypeptide growth factors are substances that stimulate an increase in cell size and/or cell number during embryonic development. In some cases, they have a similar effect on tissues in the mature organism where they function as “maintenance” factors to sustain cell viability. While their profound impact on cell behavior is well recognized, their relationship to other regulators of cell function has remained generally ill-defined. However, the developing appreciation of their hormone-like behavior suggests that they may be conveniently grouped with many other endocrine agents to form a broader group of secondary hormones. The utility of the classification is illustrated by the insulin-related family of molecules. It also serves to emphasize the similarities in function shared by many of these substances including trophic stimulation and modulation of gene expression. Internalization, though, appears to be another common feature. However, whether the uptake of the growth factor mediates an intracellular action or is designed solely to regulate responsiveness at the cell surface and/or degradation remains an important unanswered question. A brief review of two growth factors (nerve growth factor and epidermal growth factor) serves to outline the possible functions that may be served by this endocytotic process.