What is the role of growth factors in wound healing?

Growth factors play a critical role in wound healing by regulating key processes such as cell proliferation and migration. These proteins are signaling molecules that stimulate the necessary biological responses in the cells that are essential for healing. When a wound occurs, growth factors are released, which then bind to specific receptors on the surface of cells to initiate cell division and movement towards the site of injury. This promotes tissue regeneration and the repair of damaged skin.

By ensuring that cells can proliferate and migrate effectively, growth factors help to rebuild the extracellular matrix and promote angiogenesis, which is the formation of new blood vessels necessary for supplying nutrients and oxygen to the healing tissue. This cascade of events is vital for an effective and timely healing process, ultimately leading to the restoration of skin integrity.