Amphiregulin

Amphiregulin (AREG) is an epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like molecule and is classified into the EGF family. It is an autocrine growth factor as well as a mitogen for astrocytes, Schwann cells and fibroblasts. AREG gene expression and release is induced by a plethora of stimuli including inflammatory lipids, cytokines, hormones, growth factors and xenobiotics. Through EGFR binding AREG activates the generation of intracellular signals modulating cell proliferation, apoptosis and migration of different cell types including epithelial cells, fibroblasts and immune cells (dendritic cells, neutrophils, mast cells and lymphocytes). Physiologically, AREG plays an important role in lung morphogenesis and the development and maturation of mammary glands, bone tissue and oocytes. AREG also plays a critical role in restoring tissue integrity following infection or injury.