In histology, growth factors are vital for understanding the mechanisms of tissue development and repair. They interact with cell surface receptors to initiate signaling pathways that control cell behavior. For instance, epidermal growth factor (EGF) is pivotal in skin cell proliferation, while vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays a critical role in blood vessel formation. These factors help researchers in studying pathological conditions such as cancer, where growth factor signaling is often dysregulated.