The Role of Human Insulin Growth Factor (Igf) – Axis in Carcinogenesis

Abstract

Summary The human insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system has attracted significant researcher interest due to its endocrine and autocrine / paracrine activities, mitogenic effects and the involvement in the regulation of proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. The signaling pathways used by the IGF system impact cellular metabolism in a complex manner complex and many details are still unclear. Understanding the molecular mechanism of action of IGF’s and their effects on cellular activity may provide a basis to develop new anticancer drugs. This review focuses on recent studies that expand our knowledge of the signaling pathways of IGF system