What is the Role of Growth Factors and Inhibitors?
Growth factors are proteins that promote cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. However, the body also produces growth inhibitors that counteract these effects. Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-beta) is a key growth inhibitor that regulates cell growth and differentiation. It can induce cell cycle arrest by activating the expression of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors such as p21 and p27. Understanding the balance between growth factors and inhibitors is crucial for maintaining tissue homeostasis.
