Multiple pathways via secreted cytokines and growth factors

Multiple pathways via secreted cytokines and growth factors is a descriptive phrase for a broad range of biological signaling mechanisms rather than a specific, individual therapeutic target. These pathways involve the secretion of signaling proteins—such as interleukins, interferons, and growth factors like VEGF or EGF—which bind to specific receptors to trigger intracellular cascades including the JAK-STAT, PI3K/Akt, and MAPK pathways (Source: NIH National Cancer Institute, 2023; Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, 2020). These processes are essential for regulating the immune system, cell growth, and tissue repair. However, their dysregulation is a primary driver in diseases such as cancer, where growth factors promote tumor proliferation, and autoimmune disorders, where cytokine overproduction leads to chronic inflammation (Source: PubMed, "Cytokines and Cancer", 2021; StatPearls, "Growth Factors", 2023). Because this term encompasses a vast array of distinct molecular entities, it cannot be targeted by a single drug; instead, pharmacological intervention is directed at specific components within these pathways to achieve therapeutic goals.

Other names

Cytokine signaling pathwaysGrowth factor signaling cascadesSecreted factor pathwaysParacrine and autocrine signaling

Modulation of signaling cascades through the inhibition or activation of specific secreted ligands or their cognate receptors.