Progranulin is a mediator of the wound response

Zhiheng He ¹, Colin H P Ong , Jaroslava Halper

⁰Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, and Endocrine Research Laboratory, Royal Victoria Hospital, Montréal, Québec, Canada.

Nature Medicine +

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January 14, 2003

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Progranulin, a growth factor, is newly identified as a key regulator in wound repair. This study demonstrates its role in promoting cell growth and blood vessel formation at injury sites.

Area Of Science

Biochemistry
Cell Biology
Dermatology

Background

Millions suffer burns and chronic skin ulcers annually in the US.
Growth factors are crucial for wound repair but have limited therapeutic success.
New wound-response regulatory factors are needed.

Purpose Of The Study

To investigate the role of progranulin (PGRN) in wound repair.
To determine if PGRN is expressed at wound sites and influences cellular responses.

Main Methods

Murine transcutaneous puncture wound model.
Analysis of progranulin mRNA expression in wound tissues.
Application of progranulin to cutaneous wounds.
In vitro studies on dermal fibroblasts and endothelial cells.

Main Results

Progranulin mRNA was upregulated in inflammatory cells, dermal fibroblasts, and endothelia after injury.
Topical progranulin application enhanced neutrophil, macrophage, blood vessel, and fibroblast accumulation.
Progranulin promoted division, migration, and capillary-like structure formation in fibroblasts and endothelial cells.

Conclusions

Progranulin is expressed and induced at wound sites.
Progranulin acts as a probable wound-related growth factor, promoting key aspects of tissue repair.

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