HB-EGF, the growth factor that accelerates keratinocyte migration, but slows proliferation.
Among epidermal growth factors, heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like growth factor (HB-EGF) is expressed unlike others, and produces unusual effects on keratinocytes. A new report illustrates the development of a motile phenotype characterized by signs of epithelial-mesenchymal transition, reduced proliferation, and altered expression of epidermal markers. We comment on differences between endogenous HB-EGF and recombinant factor, about opportune and inopportune situations of HB-EGF overexpression by epidermal keratinocytes, as well as about the consequences on epidermal tissues.
Cell and Tissue Laboratory, URPHYM-NARILIS, University of Namur (FUNDP), Namur, Belgium. yves.poumay@fundp.ac.be
Yves
Y
Poumay
Catherine Lambert
CL
de Rouvroit
D002465:Cell Movement; D058750:Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition; D066257:Heparin-binding EGF-like Growth Factor; D006801:Humans; D036341:Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / Q000096:biosynthesis*; D015603:Keratinocytes / Q000502:physiology*
C587883:HBEGF protein, human; D066257:Heparin-binding EGF-like Growth Factor; D036341:Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins