Keratinocyte proliferation regulators

Keratinocyte proliferation regulators represent a broad functional category of molecules rather than a single therapeutic target. This group encompasses various growth factors (e.g., EGF, KGF/FGF7), cytokines (e.g., IL-17, IL-22), and their associated receptors and downstream signaling proteins that maintain the structural integrity of the epidermis (StatPearls, 2023). In a healthy physiological state, these regulators ensure a balance between the proliferation of basal keratinocytes and their eventual terminal differentiation and desquamation. Pathological dysregulation of these pathways is a primary driver of inflammatory skin diseases; for instance, the IL-23/IL-17 axis significantly accelerates keratinocyte division in psoriasis, leading to the formation of characteristic plaques (PubMed, PMID: 31010950). Conversely, overactivity of growth factor receptors like EGFR can contribute to the development of squamous cell carcinomas (NIH, 2022). Therapeutic interventions often involve specific inhibitors, such as monoclonal antibodies against IL-17 or EGFR, to restore normal epidermal growth kinetics. Because this term describes a collective biological process involving multiple distinct proteins, it is considered a functional class rather than a specific molecular target.

Other names

Epidermal proliferation regulatorsKeratinocyte growth factors and receptorsRegulators of epidermal homeostasisEpidermal growth signaling molecules

Modulation of intracellular signaling pathways, such as MAPK/ERK, PI3K/Akt, and JAK/STAT, to either inhibit or stimulate the mitotic activity and differentiation of basal keratinocytes.