Growth factor receptor family

Growth factor receptor family" refers to a broad group of cell-surface transmembrane receptors that bind growth factors and initiate intracellular signaling cascades essential for cell proliferation, differentiation, survival, migration, and tissue homeostasis. The family encompasses several major subfamilies, including the epidermal growth factor receptor family (EGFR, HER2/ErbB2, ErbB3, ErbB4), fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFR1-4), vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFR1-3), platelet-derived growth factor receptors (PDGFRA, PDGFRB), and transforming growth factor-beta receptors (TGFβR). These receptors are predominantly receptor tyrosine kinases (with the exception of TGFβRs, which are serine/threonine kinases) and play pivotal roles in many physiological and pathological processes, notably cancer, fibrosis, inflammation, and developmental disease. Many members are validated therapeutic targets, with multiple approved drugs and biomarker-driven therapies in clinical use.

Other names

Growth factor receptorsReceptor tyrosine kinasesGrowth factor receptor tyrosine kinasesGrowth factor receptor familiesErbB family

Inhibition of tyrosine kinase activity (EGFR/FGFR/VEGFR/PDGFR inhibitors), competitive antagonism of ligand binding (antibodies), downregulation of receptor expression, and interference with receptor dimerization/activation.