Epidermal growth factor (EGF)

Abstract

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is a small protein, composed of 53 amino acids and completely devoid of alanyl, phenylalanyl, or lysine residues. Its structure includes 3 internal disulfide bonds, and the hormone itself has a second-order structure, periodically assuming the form of a β-sheet. Extremely important protein needed to maintain homeostasis in the human body. It plays a fundamental role in stimulating epithelial cells to divide. Due to this property, intensive research has been carried out to determine the use of EGF in the wound healing process. The effect of using these antibodies is the increased sensitivity of cancer cells to radiotherapy, inhibition of tumor growth and induction of apoptosis processes in glioblastoma multiforme cells. Currently, laboratories around the world are working intensively to better understand the role of this factor in the human body, and to discover new, previously unknown properties that may significantly affect our lives in the future.