Improvement of Sepsis by Hepatocyte Growth Factor, an Anti-Inflammatory Regulator: Emerging Insights and Therapeutic Potential
Figure 1
Production and multifaceted functions of HGF. (a) Production, activation, and delivery of HGF. HGF is produced in mesenchymal cells such as fibroblasts. HGF is secreted in an inactive form (i.e., pro-HGF). Under injurious conditions, pro-HGF is converted to mature HGF by HGF-converting enzymes, such as uPA. HGF is delivered to injured sites via endocrine and paracrine pathways [10]. (b) Multifaceted biological actions of HGF, mediated via c-Met tyrosine phosphorylation, are outlined. Induction of mitogenic, motogenic, and morphogenic (3 M) effects of HGF are essential for organ development and regeneration. Anti-apoptotic effects are required for protection against various types of organ injuries.
