Function
Growth factor that plays an essential role in the regulation of embryonic development, cell proliferation, cell migration, survival and chemotaxis. Potent mitogen for cells of mesenchymal origin. Plays an important role in wound healing. Induces macrophage recruitment, increased interstitial pressure, and blood vessel maturation during angiogenesis. Can initiate events that lead to a mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis, including influx of monocytes and macrophages and production of extracellular matrix.
Tissue Specificity
Expressed at high levels in the heart, pancreas, adrenal gland and ovary and at low levels in placenta, liver, kidney, prostate, testis, small intestine, spleen and colon. In the kidney, expressed by the visceral epithelial cells of the glomeruli. A wides