HGF Recombinant Proteins 

Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF), also known as scatter factor, is a multifunctional protein that plays a crucial role in cellular processes such as growth, motility, morphogenesis, and differentiation. It was originally identified as a factor involved in liver regeneration but is now known to have widespread biological activities in various tissues. HGF is produced as an inactive precursor (pro-HGF) and is activated by specific proteases, primarily urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA), to its active form. 

Content: Recombinant HGF proteins typically consist of a single polypeptide chain of approximately 80 kDa in size and are produced in bacterial or mammalian expression systems. The recombinant protein usually includes the mature, biologically active form of HGF, which is comprised of the N-terminal and C-terminal domains. The protein can be further processed into homodimers, as the functional form of HGF exists as a dimer linked by disulfide bonds.

Applications:

• Cell Culture and Tissue Regeneration:
  • Recombinant HGF proteins are extensively used in cell culture to promote the proliferation and differentiation of various cell types, especially hepatocytes, endothelial cells, and epithelial cells. HGF is a potent mitogen for hepatocytes, making it a key component in studies of liver regeneration and repair.
• Stem Cell Research:
  • HGF plays a significant role in stem cell differentiation, and recombinant HGF is used to direct stem cell differentiation into specific lineages, particularly in the development of hepatocytes and other cell types. Researchers utilize recombinant HGF to improve stem cell therapy protocols, enhancing cell survival and tissue integration.
• Cancer Research:
  • In oncology, HGF and its receptor, MET, are often involved in tumor progression, metastasis, and angiogenesis. Recombinant HGF proteins are used to study the role of the HGF-MET signaling axis in cancer cell invasion, migration, and growth. HGF's ability to promote tumor cell scattering and metastasis makes it a target for cancer research and therapeutic development.
• Wound Healing and Regenerative Medicine:
  • Recombinant HGF is applied in wound healing and regenerative medicine to enhance tissue repair and regeneration. Its potent mitogenic and motogenic effects on epithelial and endothelial cells make it useful in treating chronic wounds, ulcers, and other tissue injuries. It has also been explored in combination with other growth factors to promote healing in skin, bone, and vascular tissues.

In conclusion, recombinant HGF proteins are valuable tools for a wide range of applications, from basic research in cell biology and tissue regeneration to advanced therapeutic strategies in cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and regenerative medicine. Their ability to mimic the native protein’s bioactivity makes them critical in both experimental and clinical settings.