transforming growth factor alpha

Transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-alpha) is a 50-amino acid polypeptide that belongs to the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family. It functions as a high-affinity ligand for the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), stimulating receptor tyrosine kinase activity and subsequent signaling pathways (such as MAPK and PI3K/Akt) that promote cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. While naturally occurring in the body, recombinant human TGF-alpha has been explored as a therapeutic agent for wound healing and gastrointestinal repair. In oncology, TGF-alpha is often overexpressed by cancer cells, contributing to autocrine growth stimulation and immune system evasion, as seen in pancreatic and head and neck cancers. In research settings, it is frequently used as a reagent to activate EGFR signaling in vitro.

Other names

transforming growth factor-alphaTGF alpha