title: Biology and significance of signalling pathways activated by IGF-II.
abstract: Insulin-like growth factor-II (IGF-II) affects many aspects of cellular function through its ability to activate several different receptors and, consequently, numerous intracellular signalling molecules. Thus, IGF-II is a key regulator of normal foetal development and growth. However, abnormalities in IGF-II function are associated with cardiovascular disease and cancer. Here, we review the cellular mechanisms by which IGF-II's physiological and pathophysiological actions are exerted by discussing the involvement of the type 1 and type 2 IGF receptors (IGF1R and IGF2R), the insulin receptor and the downstream MAP kinase, PI-3 kinase and G-protein-coupled signalling pathways in mediating IGF-II stimulated cellular proliferation, survival, differentiation and migration.
authors.affiliation: Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, University of Manchester, UK.
authors.forename: Lynda K
authors.initials: LK
authors.lastname: Harris
authors.forename: Melissa
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Westwood
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology*; D049109:Cell Proliferation / Q000187:drug effects; D047109:Fetal Development / Q000187:drug effects*; D006801:Humans; D007335:Insulin-Like Growth Factor II / Q000378:metabolism / Q000494:pharmacology*; D051379:Mice; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology*; D017527:Receptor, IGF Type 2 / Q000378:metabolism; D015398:Signal Transduction
chemical_list: D017527:Receptor, IGF Type 2; D007335:Insulin-Like Growth Factor II