Peptide growth factors and signal transduction

Cell differentiation and proliferation are influenced by peptide growth factors. These peptide molecules are important in maintaining the normal development and growth of animal cells; in addition, they have been found to play a major role in disease states. The role of growth factors in the development of arteriosclerosis and intimal hyperplasia is of great interest to us as physicians taking care of patients with peripheral vascular disease. Factors such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), fibroblast growth factor (FGF), insulin, insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), and transforming growth factors alpha and beta (TGF alpha and beta) have been found to play important roles in controlling the progression of cells in the cell cycle. Furthermore, various growth factors have been found to influence the motility of cells, particularly vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs).