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Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) from basics to clinics
Yasaman Ramazani1, Noël Knops2, Mohamed A Elmonem3
1Department of Development and Regeneration, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
Summary
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is crucial for cell functions and diseases like fibrosis. This review covers CTGF
Area of Science:
- Molecular biology
- Cell biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), also known as CCN2, is a matricellular protein.
- CTGF regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, adhesion, and angiogenesis.
- It plays a role in pathologies such as tumor development and tissue fibrosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the molecular and biological characteristics of CTGF.
- To review its regulation and functions in development, regeneration, and fibrosis.
- To outline preclinical and clinical studies targeting CTGF for various pathologies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of molecular and biological characteristics of CTGF.
- Analysis of studies on CTGF regulation and functions.
- Review of preclinical and clinical trials targeting CTGF.
Main Results:
- CTGF has diverse roles in biological processes and disease.
- Targeting CTGF shows potential in treating heart, lung, liver, and kidney diseases, and in transplantation.
- Translational research in fibrosis faces challenges but offers opportunities.
Conclusions:
- CTGF is a key factor in development, regeneration, and fibrosis.
- Targeting CTGF is a promising therapeutic strategy for fibrotic diseases.
- Further research is needed to overcome challenges in translational fibrosis research.
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