Paracrine signaling via growth factors and cytokines

Paracrine signaling via growth factors and cytokines refers to a **cellular communication mechanism** in which cells secrete proteins (growth factors or cytokines) that act on neighboring cells to induce changes such as proliferation, differentiation, migration, or survival. These signals are typically short-range due to rapid degradation or uptake of the molecules. Growth factors and cytokines bind specific receptors on target cells—often receptor tyrosine kinases for many growth factors—and activate intracellular pathways that regulate gene expression and cellular behavior[1][2][3][5]. This mode of communication is essential for processes like tissue regeneration and repair after injury by promoting cell division, angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels), immune cell recruitment, and extracellular matrix remodeling[1][4]. Dysregulation can contribute to diseases such as cancer (by supporting tumor microenvironment), chronic inflammation, or impaired wound healing[4]. **Note:** This entry describes a *signaling process* rather than a single molecular target such as a receptor or enzyme. Therefore, > "Paracrine signaling via growth factors/cytokines" is not itself a discrete therapeutic target but rather an umbrella term encompassing many different molecules (e.g., fibroblast growth factor receptors [FGFRs], epidermal growth factor receptor [EGFR], interleukin receptors) that mediate these effects[2][3]. For structured data purposes, it should be mapped to its constituent molecular targets. If you need information about specific paracrine mediators (such as "Fibroblast growth factor receptor 1" or "Interleukin 6 receptor"), please specify the molecule/receptor of interest.

Other names

Paracrine growth factor signalingParacrine cytokine signalingLocal cell-cell signaling via growth factors/cytokines