[The importance of growth factors in endocrinology and oncology]

Abstract

Investigations dealing with the interrelations between peripheral hormones like proteohormones and steroid hormones and local hormones like growth factors in the target cells let us have the knack of the mechanism of action of peripheral hormones. The best known growth factors (EGF, TGF alpha, TGF beta, PDGF, IGF I, IGF II) are mentioned. The interrelation between growth factor and peripheral hormones in the target cell is demonstrated on the example of Estradiol and EGF. The practical consequences of growth factors are pointed out.