Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is an acid- and heat-stable 53 amino acid protein originally found in rodents and humans. It has been shown to be a potent mitogen for a variety of cell types both in vivo and in vitro. EGF binds to the EGF receptor on the surface of cells and mediates intrinsic phosphorylation of the receptor on tyrosine residues. It has been detected in nearly all body fluids, such as urine (urogastrone), saliva, milk and platelet-rich plasma. EGF, TGFα and vaccinia virus growth factor exhibit 30-40% amino acid homology. Several additional members of the EGF/TGF family have been described; these include Cripto, Amphiregulin and the heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor. Amphiregulin and the heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor both bind to the EGF receptor.

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