Trefoil peptides

The trefoil factor family (TFF) is a relatively new family of peptides which bear the three-loop trefoil domain. They are mainly synthesised and secreted by mucin secreting epithelial cells lining the gastrointestinal tract and have a close association with mucins. They are highly conserved during evolution and are heat, acid and enzyme resistant. Their abundant expression in distinct patterns in the normal physiological state and ectopic expression in various ulcerative conditions suggests an important role in mucosal defence and repair. Expression of TFF peptides in neoplasia has stimulated interest in deducing the biological role of these peptides in tumour progression. The underlying molecular mechanism of TFF peptide action is still unknown, but their physical properties, and the biological activities of these peptides as motogens may prove to be useful as therapeutic agents in ulcerative conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease where present treatment is far from ideal.