An Overview and Review of Growth Factors in Wound Healing: Emerging Trends and Innovations.

Abstract

Wound healing is a complex process involving various cellular and molecular events aimed at restoring tissue integrity. Growth factors play a pivotal role in orchestrating these events by regulating cell migration, proliferation, differentiation, and extracellular matrix synthesis. Several growth factors have been identified as crucial mediators of wound healing, including PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF, FGF, and EGF. PDGF is released by platelets upon injury and stimulates the migration and proliferation of fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells, promoting the formation of granulation tissue. TGF-β regulates various aspects of wound healing, including inflammation, collagen deposition, and tissue remodeling. VEGF promotes angiogenesis, facilitating the formation of new blood vessels to supply oxygen and nutrients to the healing tissue. FGF stimulates fibroblast proliferation and angiogenesis, contributing to tissue regeneration. EGF promotes the migration and proliferation of epithelial cells, aiding in the re-epithelialization of the wound. These growth factors act in a coordinated manner to promote each phase of wound healing, including hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. Dysregulation of growth factor expression or signaling can impair the healing process, leading to chronic wounds or excessive scar formation. Understanding the roles of growth factors in wound healing has led to the development of therapeutic strategies aimed at enhancing wound repair.