Recombinant Epidermal Growth Factor Research Articles

GALNT3 in Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury of the Kidney.

Damages to subcellular organelles, such as mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum, are well-recognized in tubular cell injury and death in acute kidney injury (AKI). However, the changes and involvement of Golgi apparatus are much less known. Here, we report the regulation and role of N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase-3 (GALNT3), a key enzyme for protein glycosylation in Golgi apparatus, in AKI. AKI was induced in mice by renal ischemia-reperfusion or cisplatin. In vitro, rat kidney proximal tubular cells were subjected to hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury. To determine the role of GALNT3, its specific inhibitor T3inh-1 was tested in mice, and the effects of GALNT3 overexpression as well as knockdown were examined in the rat renal proximal tubular cells. EGFR activation was induced by recombinant EGF or by overexpressing EGFR. GALNT3 was significantly decreased in both in vivo and in vitro models of AKI induced by renal ischemia-reperfusion and cisplatin. T3Inh-1, a specific GALNT3 inhibitor, exacerbated ischemic AKI and suppressed tubular cell proliferation in mice. Moreover, knockdown of GALNT3 increased apoptosis during H/R treatment in rat renal proximal tubular cells, while overexpression of GALNT3 attenuated H/R-induced apoptosis, further supporting a protective role of GALNT3. Mechanistically, GALNT3 contributed to O-glycosylation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and associated EGFR signalling. Activation or overexpression of EGFR suppressed the pro-apoptotic effect of GALNT3 knockdown in H/R-treated rat renal proximal tubular cells. GALNT3 protected kidney tubular cells in AKI at least partially through O-glycosylation of EGFR.

Comparison of the effects of recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) and alendronate sodium on tibial fracture healing in rats: an experimental study

Purpose: The objective of this study is to compare the effects of recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) on bone healing with those of alendronate, a bisphosphonate widely used in practice. Materials and Methods: An iatrogenic fracture was created in the tibial shaft of 24 Sprague-Dawley rats with osteotome and fixed with an intramedullary Kirschner wire (K-wire). After surgery, Group 1 was given 0.2 mg/kg/day of oral alendronate sodium on postoperative Day 1 to 28, Group 2 received a single dose of 0.5 mg/kg of intraosseous rhEGF on postoperative Days 1 and 14, and Group 3 was followed for a total of four weeks with oral saline. At the end of Week 4, the animals were euthanized and the lower extremities were removed by stripping the soft tissues without damaging the callus. Tissue samples of groups were prepared and and stained with hematoxylin-eosin. After staining, histological scoring was performed to evaluate the degree of union. Results: Alendronate sodium group demonstrated a mean histological score of 6.95± 1.28. The rhEGF group had a lower mean score of 4.85±1.66. The placebo group exhibited the least progress in bone healing with a mean score of 4.10±1.68. The histological score was significantly higher in the alendronate sodium group compared to both the rhEGF and placebo groups. There was also a statistically significant difference between the rhEGF and placebo groups in terms of scores. Conclusion: Alendronate sodium enhanced fracture healing processes in rats. The role of rhEGF in bone healing requires further exploration. As the understanding of bisphosphonates and growth factors in bone healing evolves, the strategies for optimizing patient care in orthopedic settings are expected to be developed.

Efficacy of a Combination Treatment of Ablative Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser Therapy and Recombinant Human Epidermal Growth Factor for Atrophic Acne Scars.

Atrophic acne scars (AAS) are disfiguring and permanent changes caused by inflammatory acne. Fractional carbon dioxide is a common ablative device used to treat this condition. However, issues such as unclear effectiveness, frequent treatments, and potential side effects exist. In recent years, recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) has also been frequently reported for its application in the treatment of acne scars. To explore the potential synergistic effect of fractional carbon dioxide laser combined with rhEGF in AAS treatment. We enrolled 15 patients with AAS. They received fractional carbon dioxide laser treatment and were then randomly assigned to receive either rhEGF or a placebo on one side of the face. The procedure was repeated three times, and the results were evaluated using the échelle d'évaluation clinique des cicatrices d'acné (ECCA) score and analyzed using the CBS camera system, 3D analysis (3DMD). Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) examination was also conducted. Both sides exhibited significant improvement in the appearance of the acne scars after treatment, as confirmed by the ECCA score, 3DMD data, and CBS texture score. On the rhEGF-treated side, the pore number and epidermal pigment area significantly improved as compared to the control side, whereas no significant differences were observed in the other data. Under RCM, a significant increase in epidermal thickness and appearance of reticular collagen fibers in the dermal layer after treatment was observed. Compared to the sole use of laser, the combination of fractional carbon dioxide laser and rhEGF does not significantly enhance scar therapeutic effects. However, it does shorten the recovery period after laser treatment and improves the pore appearance.

Experimental Study of Ultra-Pulsed CO 2 Fractional Laser Combined With Recombinant Human Epidermal Growth Factor Gel in the Treatment of Eyelid Keloid.

Keloid (KD) and hypertrophic scars are prevalent and result from excessive growth of dermal tissue after skin damage. This review focused on the clinical application of the ultra-pulsed CO 2 fractional laser combined with recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rHEGF) gel in patients with eyelid KD. Patients (N = 98) with KD who underwent surgery were randomly divided into a study group (ultra-pulsed CO 2 fractional laser combined with rHEGF gel therapy, N = 49) and a control group (ultra-pulsed CO 2 fractional laser therapy, N = 49). Besides, 5 cases dropped out of the study, including 2 cases in the study group and 3 cases in the control group. Finally, 47 cases of the study group and 46 cases of the study group were included in the analysis. The clinical baseline data such as sex, age, body mass index, scar area, etiology, Vancouver Scar Scale score, Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale score, four-item itch questionnaire score, serum interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor-α level expression were recorded in the study group (N = 47) and the control group (N = 46). There was no significant difference in gender, age, body mass index, scar area, etiology, Vancouver Scar Scale score, Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale score, 4-item itch questionnaire score, IL-6, IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor-α levels between the patients treated with ultra-pulse CO 2 fractional laser + rHEGF gel and those only treated with ultra-pulse CO 2 fractional laser ( p > 0.05). Vancouver Scar Scale scores, Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale scores, and four-item itch questionnaire scores of patients with eyelid KD decreased to a greater extent than those treated with ultra-pulsed CO 2 fractional laser combined with rHEGF gel ( p <0.01). Compared with ultra-pulsed CO 2 fractional laser treatment, ultra-pulsed CO 2 fractional laser combined with rHEGF gel was more efficacious in treating patients with eyelid KD, with a lower incidence of adverse effects and a 1-year recurrence rate. Ultra-pulsed CO 2 fractional laser combined with rHEGF gel can significantly improve the scar status and scar itching in patients with eyelid KD, with an obvious therapeutic effect, a low incidence of adverse effects, a 1-year recurrence rate, and high safety, which is worthy of popularization and application.

Concanavalin-conjugated zinc-metal-organic framework drug for pH-controlled and targeted therapy of wound bacterial infection

Wounds are prone to infection which may be fatal to the life of the patient. The use of antibiotics is essential for managing bacterial infections in wounds, but the long-term use of high doses of antibiotics may lead to bacterial drug resistance and even to creation of superbacteria. Therefore, the development of targeted antimicrobial treatment strategies and the reduction in antibiotic usage are of utmost urgency. In this study, a multifunctional nanodrug delivery system (Cef-rhEGF@ZIF-8@ConA) for the treatment of bacteriostatic infection was synthesized through self-assembly of Zn2+, cefradine (Cef) and recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF), then conjugated with concanavalin (ConA), which undergoes pH-responsive degradation to release the drugs. First, ConA can specifically combine with bacteria and inhibit the rapid release of Zn2+ ions, thus achieving a long-acting antibacterial effect. Cef exerts its antibacterial effect by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial membrane proteins. Finally, Zn2+ ions released from the Zn-metal-organic framework (MOF) demonstrate bacteriostatic properties by enhancing the permeability of the bacterial cell membrane. Furthermore, rhEGF upregulates angiogenesis-associated genes, thereby promoting angiogenesis, re-epithelialization and wound healing processes. The results showed that Cef-rhEGF@ZIF-8@ConA has good biocompatibility, with antibacterial efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli of 99.61 % and 99.75 %, respectively. These nanomaterials can inhibit the release of inflammatory cytokines and promote the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines, while also stimulating the proliferation of fibroblasts to facilitate wound healing. Taken together, the Cef-rhEGF@ZIF-8@ConA nanosystem is an excellent candidate in clinical therapeutics for bacteriostatic infection and wound healing.

Recombinant human epidermal growth factor-loaded liposomes and transferosomes for dermal delivery: Development, characterization, and cytotoxicity evaluation.

Recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) is widely utilized as an antiaging compound in wound-healing therapies and cosmetic purposes. However, topical administration of rhEGF has limited treatment outcomes because of its poor percutaneous penetration and rapid proteinase degradation. To overcome these obstacles, this study aims to develop and characterize rhEGF-containing conventional liposomes (rhEGF-CLs) and transferosomes (rhEGF-TFs) as efficient dermal carriers. Physicochemical characterization such as particle size, zeta potential (ZP), morphology, encapsulation efficiency (EE%), and release properties of nanocarriers as well as in vitro cytotoxicity in human dermal fibroblast (HDF) and human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cell lines were investigated. rhEGF-TFs at the rhEGF concentration ranging from 0.05 to 1.0 μg/mL were chosen as the optimum formulation due to the desired release profile, acceptable EE%, optimal cell proliferation, and minimal cytotoxicity compared to the control and free rhEGF. However, higher concentrations caused a decrease in cell viability. The ratio 20:80 of Tween 80 to lipid was optimal for rhEGF-TFs-2, which had an average diameter of 233.23 ± 2.64 nm, polydispersity index of 0.33 ± 0.05, ZP of -15.46 ± 0.29 mV, and EE% of 60.50 ± 1.91. The formulations remained stable at 5°C for at least 1 month. TEM and SEM microscopy revealed that rhEGF-TFs-2 had a regular shape and unilamellar structure. In vitro drug release studies confirmed the superiority of rhEGF-TFs-2 in terms of optimal cumulative release of rhEGF approximately 82% within 24 h. Franz diffusion cell study showed higher rhEGF-TFs-2 skin permeation compared to free rhEGF solution. Taken together, we concluded that rhEGF-TFs can be used as a promising formulation for wound healing and skin regeneration products.

Production of recombinant human epidermal growth factor fused with HaloTag protein and characterisation of its biological functions.

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) protein is a crucial biomolecule involved in regulating cell growth, proliferation, migration and differentiation, which is used in various therapeutic applications, such as wound healing and tissue regeneration. The production of recombinant EGF is essential for studying its biological function and for its clinical translation. However, EGF protein expressed in prokaryotic cells often occurs in inclusion bodies, and co-expression with soluble tag protein is an effective method to prepare recombinant EGF. In this study, we expressed recombinant human EGF (rhEGF) fused to a HaloTag (Halo-rhEGF) and a large portion of Halo-rhEGF was found in the soluble fraction. Cell growth assay showed that the purified Halo-rhEGF protein could promote the proliferation of fibroblasts (NIH 3T3) and epithelial cells (HaCaT), and significantly increased their viability. Phosphorylation of the intracellular signaling proteins, ERK1/2 and c-Jun, was stimulated by treatment with Halo-rhEGF and the expression levels of proteins regulating cell proliferation were significantly increased. RNA sequencing analysis revealed that rhEGF could increase the transcription of genes enriched in ribosome generation and cell proliferation. Moreover, Halo-rhEGF can be labelled by HaloTag ligand for fluorescence imaging and can be slowly released in tissue repair by binding to anion biomaterials. In conclusion, HaloTag is an efficient fusion tag for rhEGF protein expression, purification and controlled release, and Halo-rhEGF can promote the proliferation and viability of epithelial and fibroblast cells.

Clinical comprehensive treatment protocol for managing diabetic foot ulcers: A retrospective cohort study.

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a common complication of diabetes, often leading to severe infections, amputations, and reduced quality of life. The current standard treatment protocols for DFUs have limitations in promoting efficient wound healing and preventing complications. A comprehensive treatment approach targeting multiple aspects of wound care may offer improved outcomes for patients with DFUs. The hypothesis of this study is that a comprehensive treatment protocol for DFUs will result in faster wound healing, reduced amputation rates, and improved overall patient outcomes compared to standard treatment protocols. To compare the efficacy and safety of a comprehensive treatment protocol for DFUs with those of the standard treatment protocol. This retrospective study included 62 patients with DFUs, enrolled between January 2022 and January 2024, randomly assigned to the experimental (n = 32) or control (n = 30) group. The experimental group received a comprehensive treatment comprising blood circulation improvement, debridement, vacuum sealing drainage, recombinant human epidermal growth factor and anti-inflammatory dressing, and skin grafting. The control group received standard treatment, which included wound cleaning and dressing, antibiotics administration, and surgical debridement or amputation, if necessary. Time taken to reduce the white blood cell count, number of dressing changes, wound healing rate and time, and amputation rate were assessed. The experimental group exhibited significantly better outcomes than those of the control group in terms of the wound healing rate, wound healing time, and amputation rate. Additionally, the comprehensive treatment protocol was safe and well tolerated by the patients. Comprehensive treatment for DFUs is more effective than standard treatment, promoting granulation tissue growth, shortening hospitalization time, reducing pain and amputation rate, improving wound healing, and enhancing quality of life.

Efficacy of recombinant human epidermal growth factor plus sodium hyaluronate eye drops in diabetic dry eye post-cataract surgery

BACKGROUND Dry eye syndrome (DES) after diabetic cataract surgery can seriously affect the patient’s quality of life. Therefore, effective alleviation of symptoms in patients with this disease has important clinical significance. AIM To explore the clinical effect of recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) plus sodium hyaluronate (SH) eye drops on DES after cataract surgery in patients with diabetes. METHODS We retrospectively evaluated 82 patients with diabetes who experienced DES after cataract surgery at Tianjin Beichen Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Nankai University between April 2021 and April 2023. They were classified into an observation group (42 cases, rhEGF + SH eye drops) and a control group (40 cases, SH eye drops alone), depending on the different treatment schemes. The thera-peutic efficacy, dry eye symptom score, tear film breakup time (TFBUT), basic tear secretion score [assessed using Schirmer I test (SIt)], corneal fluorescein staining (FL) score, tear inflammatory markers, adverse reactions during treatment, and treatment satisfaction were compared between the two groups. RESULTS Therapeutic efficacy was higher in the observation group compared with the control group. Both groups showed improved TFBUT and dry eye, as well as improved SIt and FL scores after treatment, with a more pronounced improvement in the observation group. Although no marked differences in adverse reactions were observed between the two groups, treatment satisfaction was higher in the observation group. CONCLUSION rhEGF + SH eye drops rendered clinical benefits to patients by effectively ameliorating dry eye and visual impairment with favorable efficacy, fewer adverse reactions, and high safety levels. Thus, this treatment should be promoted in clinical practice.

Polydopamine modified multifunctional carboxymethyl chitosan/pectin hydrogel loaded with recombinant human epidermal growth factor for diabetic wound healing

The development of a multifunctional wound dressing that can adapt to the shape of wounds and provide controlled drug release is crucial for diabetic patients. This study developed a carboxymethyl chitosan-based hydrogel dressing with enhanced mechanical properties and tissue adherence that were achieved by incorporating pectin (PE) and polydopamine (PDA) and loading the hydrogel with recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF). This EGF@PDA-CMCS-PE hydrogel demonstrated robust tissue adhesion, enhanced mechanical properties, and superior water retention and vapor permeability. It also exhibited significant antioxidant capacity. The results showed that EGF@PDA-CMCS-PE could effectively scavenge 2,2′-Azinobis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonate)， (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl), and superoxide anions and increase superoxide dismutase and catalase levels in vivo. In vitro cytotoxicity and antibacterial assays showed good biocompatibility and antimicrobial properties. The sustained release of EGF by the hydrogel was confirmed, with a gradual release profile over 120 h. In vivo studies in diabetic mice showed that the hydrogel significantly accelerated wound healing, with a wound contraction rate of 97.84% by day 14. Histopathological analysis revealed that the hydrogel promoted fibroblast proliferation, neovascularization, and orderly connective tissue formation, leading to a more uniform and compact wound-healing process. Thus, EGF@PDA-CMCS-PE hydrogel presents a promising tool for managing chronic diabetic wounds, offering a valuable strategy for future clinical applications.

Efficacy and safety of inetetamab-containing regimens in patients with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer in first-line/second-line setting.

e13013 Background: Inetetamab is a novel recombinant humanized anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER-2) monoclonal antibody. This real-world retrospective study assessed the efficacy and safety of inetetamab-based combination regimens in first-line/second-line treatment of HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer (MBC). Methods: This study retrospectively recruited HER2-positive MBC patients who received inetetamab-based combination regimens from June 2020 to May 2023. The outcomes included progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR), and disease control rate (DCR). Results: A total of 329 patients were enrolled and included in the efficacy analysis. The most frequently used treatment strategy was inetetamab plus pyrotinib-contained regimens (205/329, 62.3%). Patients treated with first-line regimens benefited the most, with a median PFS of 14.5 versus (vs.) 10.0 months (first-line- vs. second-line combination therapy of inetetamab, pyrotinib and chemotherapy, p &lt;0.001), 18.0 vs. 17.0 months (first-line- vs. second-line combination therapy of inetetamab, pertuzumab and chemotherapy, p=0.096), and 14.0 vs. not applicable months (first-line- vs. second-line inetetamab plus chemotherapy, p=0.229). The complete response (CR) was observed in 14 (4.3%) patients. The ORR was 54.4% (95%CI, 49.0%-59.7%), and the DCR was 99.4% (95%CI, 97.8%-99.8%). Diarrhea (39.2%) and white blood cell count decreased (33.0%) were the most common adverse events (AEs). The grade 3 and higher AEs were observed in 29.5% of the whole study cohort. Conclusions: Inetetamab-based combinations therapy demonstrated promising clinical activity and a manageable safety profile in patients with HER2-positive MBC, especially in the first-line setting.

Effect of rmEGF combined with ELF-EMF on promoting wound healing in rats.

The process of wound healing is complex, and expediting it remains a challenge. The advantages of extremely low frequency electric and magnetic fields (ELF-EMF) are its non-invasive treatment, promotes healing and promotes myogenesis of C2C12 cells. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is known to play a vital role in promoting wound healing, so a combination of ELF-EMF and EGF can have far-reaching significance. To study the effect of recombinant murine epidermal growth factor (rmEGF) combined with ELF-EMF on wound healing. Thirty-six rats were randomly divided into three groups: normal control group, EGF group, and ELF-EMF+EGF group, and a 20 mm × 20 mm dorsal wound was made. The wound healing rate of rats was calculated on the 3rd, 7th, 11th and 15th day. HE staining was used to observe the micro-morphological changes during the wound healing process. The wound healing rate of EGF+ELF-EMF group was better than other groups. On the 15th day of wound healing, the wounds of each group were completely healed. On the 3rd, 7th, 11th and 15th day of HE staining, the early inflammatory cell infiltration, the arrangement of fibroblasts and the number of new capillaries in the wounds of EGF+ELF-EMF group were better than those of the other groups. rmEGF combined with ELF-EMF significantly promotes wound healing in SD rats.

#2716 Selenoprotein-P1 (SEPP-1) in human proximal tubule cells after ischemic-reperfusion injury: an in-vitro model

Abstract Background and Aims Novel biomarkers, anticipating serum creatinine rise, are eagerly needed to have a speedy diagnosis of acute kidney injury (AKI) and thus to mitigate and to preserve kidney function with well-timed therapeutic plans. Recently, in a pilot study on patients undergoing elective major cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), selenoprotein-p1 (SEPP-1) has emerged as a promising candidate plasmatic biomarker for an early AKI risk stratification. SEPP-1 increased particularly between 4th to 8th hour after CPB and with a strict relation with ischemia duration (Bolignano et Al. Rev. Cardiovasc. Med. 2022). SEPP1 is primarily secreted from liver and acts as a selenium transporter supplying tissues and organs with this trace mineral which elicits the activity of specific glutathione peroxidase selenoenzymes. Additionally, renal tubular cells are able to synthetize this protein but remain unknown if, during AKI, SEPP1 increases as defeat answer to renal cells damage or if it's hepatic SEPP1 that accumulates for a reduced renal glomerular filtration rate. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the release of SEPP-1 by renal tubular cells in an experimental model of AKI induced by ischemia-reperfusion and secondarily evaluate the effect of selenium supplying on renal cells injury. Method Human proximal tubular cells (PTC), HK2 cells and human embryonic kidney 293 cells (HEK293) were cultured in Keratinocyte-SFM a complete serum-free medium supplemented with human recombinant Epidermal Growth Factor (rEGF) and Bovine Pituitary Extract (BPE) (LGC Standards s.r.l., Milan, Italy) and in Eagle's Minimum Essential Medium (E-MEM) (LGC Standards s.r.l., Milan, Italy) containing 10% fetal bovine serum, respectively. The cells were pre-incubated with medium containing Sodium Selenite 100 nM for 24 h and then were treated for 24 hours with CoCl2 (Sigma Aldrich S.r.l., Milan, Italy) a chemical hypoxia inducer (500 µM for HK-2 and 250 µM for HEK-293). After that cell viability was evaluated by MTT and trypan bleu dye exclusion assay, while, protein expression of HIF (hypoxia marker) and SEPP1 was analyzed by western blot analysis. Results Ischemia-reperfusion was simulated by the exposure of HK-2 and HEK-293 to CoCl2 and confirmed by HIF expression. The expression of SEPP-1 increased significantly in HK-2 and HEK-293 after hypoxia stress (Fig. 1). Furthermore, the treatment with CoCl2 determined a decrease of cell viability (about 50% less) and Sodium selenite alone increased cell proliferation (about 15% more) in both cell lines. Interestingly cell growth after hypoxia augmented significantly if cell lines were pre-treated with sodium-selenite, highly in HK-2 cells (p &amp;lt; 0.001). Conclusion These preliminary data evidenced, in vitro, that AKI is able to induce renal tubular expression of SEPP-1 and probably SEPP-1 release in human after renal injury is not only a result of a reduced filtration of the hepatic released protein. Furthermore, SEPP-1 showed a possible protective role in AKI. In fact, AKI induced by ischemia-reperfusion, in our in vitro cellular model, was able to induce an increased expression of SEPP-1 in renal tubular cells suggesting a shielding mechanism against injury related to selenium transport. This hypothesis was supported by an exalted SEPP-1 expression after Sodium-Selenite adding to cells’ culture. Supplementary experiments, including functional molecular assays in vitro and in vivo studies will allow to better characterize the role of SEPP-1 in AKI.

Enhancement of southern flounder (Paralichthys lethostigma) sperm velocity and fertility by direct activation of sperm epidermal growth factor and adenylyl cyclase signaling pathways

Development of southern flounder commercial aquaculture is limited by poor sperm motility and fertility, but the underlying causes and mechanisms regulating sperm motility are unknown. In vitro treatment of southern flounder sperm with progestin hormones rapidly increases velocity (swimming speed), a major component of sperm motility, and also fertility through membrane progestin receptor alpha (mPRα) and increases in Acy (adenylyl cyclase)/cAMP signaling. The progestin-induced increase of Atlantic croaker sperm velocity is also mediated through epidermal growth factor receptor (Egfr) transactivation resulting in extracellular-regulated kinase 1/2 (Erk1/2) signaling, but its role in regulating southern flounder sperm velocity is unknown. The hypotheses that Egfr transactivation and Erk1/2 signaling mediates progestin-induced increases in sperm velocity and calcium levels in southern flounder, and that direct stimulation of sperm Egfr/Erk1/2 and Acy/cAMP pathways increases sperm fertility in strip spawning trials were tested in the present study. Golf, Egfr, Erk1/2, and protein kinase A were detected on southern flounder sperm by immunocytochemistry. Involvement of Egfr/Erk1/2 signaling in increasing sperm velocity and calcium levels was investigated by preincubating sperm with two EGFR inhibitors, AG1478, and AG825, a matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor, Ilomastat, and two ERK1/2 inhibitors, PD98059, and U0126, for 30 min prior to 1 min treatment with progestins. Sperm swimming speed was observed under a microscope after activation with a hyperosmotic medium and recorded for 1 min. Whereas treatment with the inhibitors did not alter basal sperm velocity and calcium levels, all of them significantly attenuated velocity and calcium increases in response to progestins. Treatment in vitro for 1 min with the Egfr agonist, recombinant human EGF (0.1 nM and 100 nM), mimicked the stimulatory effects of progestins on sperm velocity, the increase in calcium, and also fertility in a strip spawning trials with ovulated southern flounder eggs. The results suggest Egfr/Erk1/2 signaling is involved in sperm velocity and fertility responses to progestins in southern flounder. Direct in vitro treatment with the Acy activator, forskolin (10 μM) for 1 min mimicked the stimulatory action of progestins on sperm calcium levels, velocity, and fertility, suggesting that Acy/cAMP signaling also mediates increased sperm swimming speed and fertility. Importantly, both EGF and forskolin also directly stimulated southern flounder sperm velocity and fertility at the end of the reproductive season when sperm were no longer responsive to progestins. The results suggest that EGF and forskolin could potentially be used as pharmacological agents to enhance reproductive performance of male southern flounder broodstock.

Cost-effectiveness Analysis of Intra- and Perilesional Recombinant Human Epidermal Growth Factor vs Hydrocolloid Therapy in Venous Ulcer Treatment in the Colombian Context

Cost-effectiveness Analysis of Intra- and Perilesional Recombinant Human Epidermal Growth Factor vs Hydrocolloid Therapy in Venous Ulcer Treatment in the Colombian Context

The involvement of epidermal growth factor receptor/protein kinase Bsignaling in the tumor intrinsic PD-L1-induced malignant potential of oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Various antigen-presenting cells and tumor cells-expressing PD-L1 inhibits antitumor immune responses in the tumor microenvironment. Recently, numerous studies have shown that tumor cell intrinsic PD-L1 also plays important roles in tumor growth and progression. On the other hand, oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells overexpress epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and EGFR signal pathway exacerbates tumor progression. Therefore, this study assessed whether tumor-intrinsic PD-L1 facilitates malignant potential of OSCC cells through regulation of EGFR signaling. Two OSCC cell lines, SAS and HSC-3, were transfected with PD-L1 and EGFR-specific small interfering RNA (siRNA). Influences of PD-L1 knockdown on malignant potentials of OSCC cells were examined by Cell Counting kit-8 assay, transwell assay, sphere formation assay, flow cytometry, and Western blot. Effects of PD-L1 and EGFR knockdown on each expression were examined by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), Western blot, and flow cytometry. Transfection of an PD-L1-siRNA into OSCC cells decreased the abilities of proliferation, stemness, and mobility of these cells significantly. PD-L1 knockdown also decreased EGFR expression through the promotion of proteasome- and lysosome-mediated degradation and following activation of the EGFR/protekin kinase B (AKT)signal pathway. Meanwhile, EGFR knockdown did not influence PD-L1 expression in SAS and HSC-3 cells, but treatment with a recombinant human EGF induced its expression. Treatment with erlotinib and cetuximab suppressed rhEGF-induced PD-L1 expression and localization in the cellular membrane of both OSCC cells. OSCC cells-expressing PD-L1 induced by EGF stimulation may promote malignancy intrinsically via the activation of the EGFR/AKT signaling cascade.

The effect of human recombinant epidermal growth factor on neovascularization and pedicle division time in a rat interpolation flap model.

In practice, waiting 2-3 weeks for interpolation flaps pedicle division result in certain morbidities and discomfort for patient. The division time of flap pedicle depends on neovascularization from the recipient bed and includes wound healing stages. We aimed to investigate the effect of recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) on the flap viability during early pedicle division. Thirty-six rats were allocated to two main groups as control and study. A cranial based flap measuring 5 × 5 cm was elevated from the back, including all layers of the skin. While the cranial half of the defect was primarily closed, the flap was inset into the distal half. In the study group, a single dose of 20 μg EGF was injected into the recipient site and wound edges before the flap inset. The control group received no treatment. Each main group was divided into three subgroups based on pedicle division time of 8, 11 and 14 days. After pedicle division, each flap was monitored and photographed for 7 days, and histopathological samples were collected. Viable and necrotic areas were compared, and flaps were examined histopathologically. The necrosis area in the study group on the 11th day was significantly lower than that in the control group. The fibroblastic activity, granulation tissue and neovascularization on the 8th day, the granulation tissue level on the 11th day, and the neovascularization level on the 14th day were significantly higher in the study groups. Following the application of EGF, the necrosis area decreased within the study group. Histopathological assessments revealed a statistically significant increase in parameters related to granulation tissue and fibroblastic activity, notably neovascularization, across all subgroups within the study. It was concluded that the use of EGF positively affected the neovascularization, and flaps could be divided earlier.

Evaluating the impact of recombinant human epidermal growth factor on scar formation in oral and maxillofacial traumatic wound healing.

Scarring following oral and maxillofacial trauma can have significant aesthetic and functional repercussions. Recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) has emerged as a potential therapeutic agent to enhance wound healing and minimise scar formation. This retrospective study analysed data from March 2020 to June 2023 at a single institution. A total of 105 patients were divided into a control group (n = 70) receiving standard treatment and an observation group (n = 35) receiving standard treatment plus rhEGF. The primary outcomes were the incidence of scar hyperplasia and infection rates, with the secondary outcome being scar aesthetics measured by the visual analogue scale (VAS). No significant differences were found in baseline characteristics between the two groups. The observation group showed a significant reduction in scar hyperplasia (14.3% vs. 57.1%, χ2 = 20.98, p < 0.01) and infection rates (5.7% vs. 21.4%, χ2 = 4.246, p < 0.05) compared to the control group. VAS scores indicated a superior aesthetic outcome in the observation group at all post-treatment timepoints (p < 0.01). rhEGF treatment in oral and maxillofacial trauma patients resulted in favourable healing outcomes and reduced scar formation, improving aesthetic results. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of rhEGF and underscore the need for larger-scale trials to further investigate its benefits.

Effect of recombinant human epidermal growth factor on neuropathic pain associated with radiotherapy for head and neck malignancies and nursing strategy

Objective To evaluate the effect of recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) on radiotherapy-related neuropathic pain in patients with head and neck malignancies, and to explore comprehensive nursing strategies. Methods In this retrospective study, a total of 80 patients diagnosed with head and neck malignancy and receiving radiotherapy were divided into 2 groups according to treatment. Patients in the control group received conventional radiation therapy and postoperative care, and those in the trial group received rhEGF in addition to conventional radiation therapy and care. Visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to evaluate the pain degree of patients before and after treatment, EORTC QLQ-C30 scale was used to evaluate the quality of life of patients before and after treatment, and the skin and mucosal reactions of patients after radiotherapy were observed. Results Baseline characteristics were similar between the two groups. VAS scores in the trial group were significantly lower than those in the control group during and after radiotherapy (p < 0.001), and skin and mucosal reactions were less severe (p < 0.05). In addition, compared with the control group, the quality of life and symptom scores of the trial group were significantly improved after treatment (p < 0.05). Conclusion rhEGF can effectively alleviate neuropathic pain during and after radiotherapy in patients with head and neck malignancies, improve skin and mucosal response, and improve quality of life.

Effect of CO2 fractional laser combined with recombinant human epidermal growth factor gel on skin barrier.

To evaluate the impact of CO2 fractional laser combined with recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) gel on skin barrier in acne scar patients. In a retrospective analysis, we examined 105 acne scar patients admitted between July 2018 and August 2021. Of these, 51 received only CO2 fractional laser (control group), while 54 underwent a combination of CO2 fractional laser and rhEGF gel (observation group). We assessed treatment efficacy, symptom relief, skin barrier parameters, pre- and posttreatment inflammatory factors, adverse reactions, posttreatment quality of life, and patient satisfaction. The observation group exhibited a higher overall response rate, significantly shorter wound healing, scab formation, and scab detachment times. Additionally, this group showed increased stratum corneum water content, decreased pH, and transdermal water loss (TEWL), and reduced hypersensitive C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 expression posttreatment. Quality of life scores were higher, with fewer adverse reactions and greater treatment satisfaction. Combining CO2 fractional laser with rhEGF gel markedly improves acne scar treatment efficacy, enhances skin barrier function, reduces inflammation, and elevates quality of life. Its safety profile supports its broader clinical adoption.