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Updated: Jul 11, 2026

Evaluation of Keratinocyte Proliferation on Two- and Three-dimensional Type I Collagen Substrates
Published on: April 22, 2019
Keratinocyte growth factor receptors
Vincenzo de Giorgi1, Serena Sestini, Daniela Massi
1Department of Dermatology, University of Florence, Via della Pergola 60, 50100 Florence, Italy. vincenzo.degiorgi@unifi.it
Abstract:
Modulation of the number of functional growth factor receptors on the epithelial cell surface that is exposed to the action of cognate ligands represents a key strategy in cellular physiology to regulate the proliferation rate and the differentiation process. The keratinocyte growth factor receptor (KGFR) and the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), among the growth factor receptors expressed on keratinocytes, are believed to play a unique crucial role in controlling epithelial proliferation. KGFR and EGFR appear to also contribute to the cell differentiation process. Modulation of KGFR and EGFR on the proliferation rate and differentiation process has been reported either in in vivo or in vitro conditions. This article reviews the architecture, the ligand binding activated-signaling pathways, and the biologic effects of KGFR and EGFR on keratinocytes.
Insights
Growth factor receptors like keratinocyte growth factor receptor (KGFR) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) control epithelial cell proliferation and differentiation. This review details their structure, signaling, and biological impacts on keratinocytes.
Area of Science:
- Cellular Physiology
- Molecular Biology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Epithelial cell growth and differentiation are regulated by cell surface growth factor receptors.
- Keratinocyte growth factor receptor (KGFR) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are key receptors in keratinocytes.
- Modulation of these receptors influences epithelial cell behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the architecture, ligand binding, and signaling pathways of KGFR and EGFR.
- To summarize the biological effects of KGFR and EGFR on keratinocytes.
- To highlight the role of KGFR and EGFR in regulating epithelial proliferation and differentiation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on KGFR and EGFR.
- Analysis of signaling pathways activated by ligand binding.
- Synthesis of data on in vivo and in vitro effects.
Main Results:
- KGFR and EGFR play crucial roles in controlling keratinocyte proliferation.
- These receptors also contribute to the epithelial cell differentiation process.
- Their modulation affects proliferation rates and differentiation.
Conclusions:
- KGFR and EGFR are critical regulators of keratinocyte function.
- Understanding their mechanisms is vital for cellular physiology and potential therapeutic strategies.
- Further research into KGFR and EGFR signaling can advance epithelial biology.
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