The therapeutic potential of inducing molecules

Many fundamental developmental mechanisms that result in the generation and formation of specific cells and organ systems are not limited to embryogenesis. Regenerative processes in the adult serve to help regulate cellular turnover in systems where specific cell numbers or balance is crucial. In addition, these processes can be re-activated to replace cell populations which are lost due to damage or disease. Induction of differentiation of one cell type by another is one mechanism that also acts as a regenerative process in the adult. Molecules which direct these processes are termed inducing molecules and they are prevalent and active in many adult organ systems such as the haematopoietic, osteogenic and reproductive systems. To date, recombinant forms of inducing molecules identified in the haematopoietic system are being used clinically to stimulate production of specific cell types that are depleted during chemotherapy or dialysis treatments. The prospect that other inducing molecules for other organ systems may be as effective clinically has prompted intense research. The ability to harness inducing molecules as effective therapeutic agents to treat cell deficits in congenital or acquired disease states is the goal of several biotechnology companies.