Molecular biology contributions to wound healing and practical applications
Werner, S.; Munz, B.
Langenbecks Archiv für Chirurgie. Supplement. Kongressband. Deutsche Gesellschaft für Chirurgie. Kongress 115: 678-682
1998
ISSN/ISBN: 0942-2854 PMID: 9931700 Document Number: 487562
Keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) is a potent mitogen for keratinocytes which is strongly expressed at the wound edge after skin injury. Inhibition of KGF receptor signalling in the epidermis of transgenic mice caused a delay in wound reepithelialization. To determine the mechanisms of KGF action in keratinocytes, we searched for genes which are regulated by KGF. One of these genes codes for activin which we identified as a novel important player in the repair process. Furthermore, expression of a novel peroxidase was induced by KGF. The expression pattern of this enzyme during wound repair suggests that it could protect keratinocytes from reactive oxygen species during the early inflammatory phase. Taken together, our studies provide new insights into the mechanisms of action of growth factors during the healing process.