Multiple endogenous cytokine and growth factor receptors

Multiple endogenous cytokine and growth factor receptors represent a diverse group of signaling proteins that serve as the primary targets for several antifibrotic and anti-inflammatory medications [2, 3]. These receptors, which include members of the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) family and various cytokine receptor superfamilies, are responsible for transducing signals from ligands such as TGF-β, PDGF, and VEGF [2, 4]. In diseases like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), the dysregulation of these pathways drives the activation of fibroblasts and the subsequent scarring of lung tissue [2]. Therapeutic agents like pirfenidone and nintedanib exert their effects by simultaneously modulating multiple components of these signaling networks, thereby inhibiting the fibrotic process more effectively than single-target inhibitors [2, 5]. This broad-spectrum activity is essential for managing chronic conditions characterized by complex, multi-factorial signaling environments [1, 5]. Beyond fibrosis, these receptors are also implicated in cancer progression, where they promote angiogenesis and tumor cell survival [1, 4]. Drugs targeting these receptors often require careful monitoring due to their systemic effects on various physiological processes. The multi-target nature of these therapies helps overcome the redundancy often found in cytokine and growth factor signaling [2, 3]. Consequently, these receptors remain a focal point for the development of treatments for progressive fibrotic and inflammatory disorders.

Other names

Multiple cytokine and growth factor receptorsMulti-target cytokine/growth factor profileGrowth factor and cytokine receptors

Inhibition of receptor tyrosine kinases, modulation of cytokine synthesis, and competitive inhibition of ligand-receptor binding.