Regulation of Cell Growth by the EGF Receptor

摘要: Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is a small protein of 53 amino acids which acts as mitogen for various cell types in vitro and vivo (Carpenter Cohen 1979 Carpenter et al., this Vol.). Several lines evidence suggest that the receptor can also play role uncontrolled proliferation characteristic neoplastic cells. First, v-erbB oncogene avian erythroblastosis virus encodes truncated EGF (Downward al. 1984) we recently proposed transforms by functioning an activated (see article Beug al.). Second, animal human tumor cells produce called transforming factor-α (TGF-α; Todaro 1980 Derynck). This highly related to EGF; both factors bind with similar affinities induce bearing receptor. It has been suggested TGF-α plays oncogenesis inducing autocrine (Todaro 1980). Finally, gene amplified rearranged significant proportion brain tumors glial origin (Libermann 1985). The resultant overexpression may development or progression these tumors. Hence, it clear investigation structure mechanism its activation provide important clues fundamental questions underlying mechanisms normal control neoplasia.