CTGF/Hcs24 as a multifunctional growth factor for fibroblasts, chondrocytes and vascular endothelial cells

Connective tissue growth factor/hypertrophic chondrocyte-specific gene product 24 (CTGF/Hcs24), a member of the CCN family, is a multifunctional growth factor for fibroblasts, chondrocytes and vascular endothelial cells. Depending on the type of cell with which it interacts, it promotes chemotaxis, migration, adhesion, proliferation, differentiation and/or extracellular matrix formation. Because gene expression of CTGF/Hcs24 is maximal in hypertrophic chondrocytes in the physiological state, a major physiological role for this factor should be the promotion of endochondral ossification. On the other hand, its expression is up-regulated during wound healing, indicating the involvement of this factor in this process as well. When overexpressed, CTGF/Hcs24 may cause pathological states such as fibrotic disorders and angiogenic diseases. This review focuses on the physiological and pathological significances of his novel type of growth factor. (C) 2003 Prous Science. All rights reserved.