Tumor growth factor alpha (TGF-a) is a member of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family. TGF-a function is mediated through binding the EGF receptor (EGFR) to activate receptor tyrosine kinase signaling. TGF-a functions as a mitogen to activate epithelial cell proliferation, growth, and differentiation. In the gastric mucosa, TGF-a production inhibits gastric acid secretion and therefore plays a central role in the pathogenesis of the stomach syndrome Ménétrier's disease. TGF-a is also produced in adult macrophages, brain cells, keratinocytes, and is widely expressed in cancer cells.
Bioactivity Assay:BALB/c 3T3 proliferation; ED50 =2 ng/mL; Bioactivity =5 x 10^5 units/mg