HDGF Human

Hepatoma-Derived Growth Factor (HDGF) is a protein that was initially identified in the conditioned medium of a human hepatoma cell line, HuH-7. This discovery was part of research aimed at finding novel growth factors that could stimulate the growth of hepatoma cells. HDGF is a member of a new gene family that includes four related proteins. It is known for its growth-stimulating, angiogenesis-inducing, and anti-apoptotic roles .

HDGF is a heparin-binding acidic glycoprotein. It functions both as a DNA-binding nuclear factor and as a secreted protein that acts via a receptor-mediated pathway . The protein is ubiquitously expressed in non-cancerous tissues and plays a significant role in organ development and tissue repair. HDGF has been shown to promote cellular proliferation, making it a critical factor in both normal physiological processes and pathological conditions .

HDGF is highly expressed in various malignant tissues, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Studies have shown that the high expression of HDGF is closely associated with unfavorable clinical outcomes in several malignant diseases. This makes HDGF a potential target for therapeutic interventions in cancer treatment . In hepatoma cells, HDGF has been observed to stimulate growth, suggesting its involvement in the development and progression of malignant diseases .

Given its role in promoting cell growth and angiogenesis, HDGF has been studied as a potential therapeutic target. In models of Huntington’s disease, HDGF has demonstrated neuroprotective effects, indicating its broader therapeutic potential beyond cancer . The protein’s ability to improve the viability of neurons and reduce mutant protein aggregation highlights its significance in neurodegenerative diseases .