Recombinant Human Keratinocyte Growth Factor Modulates Inflammatory Changes in Mouse Oral Mucosa During Fractionated Irradiation

Abstract

Oral mucositis is a severe and frequently dose-limiting side effect of radio(chemo)therapy for head and neck tumours. Keratinocyte Growth Factor, synthesized mainly by mesenchymal cells, predominantly modulates epithelial proliferation and differentiation processes. A significant reduction of radiation-induced oral mucosal reactions by recombinant human Keratinocyte Growth Factor (Palifermin) has been demonstrated in a number of experimental studies and in clinical investigations. The underlying mechanisms, however, currently remain unclear.