positive regulation of cell population proliferation

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that activates or increases the rate or extent of cell proliferation. [GOC:go_curators]

Positive regulation of cell population proliferation is a complex process that ensures controlled and balanced growth of cells within an organism. It encompasses a series of molecular events that govern cell cycle progression, promoting the transition from one stage to the next, ultimately leading to the production of new daughter cells. This delicate balance is crucial for maintaining tissue homeostasis and preventing uncontrolled cell division, which can lead to tumor formation and disease.

The process is initiated by signaling molecules, such as growth factors, cytokines, and hormones, which bind to specific receptors on the cell surface. This binding triggers a cascade of intracellular signaling pathways, activating downstream effector proteins, including transcription factors and kinases.

One of the key pathways involved in positive regulation of cell population proliferation is the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Activation of this pathway results in the phosphorylation of specific proteins that promote cell cycle progression, including cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs). Cyclins are regulatory proteins that bind to and activate CDKs, which are enzymes that phosphorylate target proteins involved in cell cycle control. The phosphorylation of these targets triggers the transition from one phase of the cell cycle to the next, ultimately leading to DNA replication and cell division.

Another critical pathway is the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway. Activation of this pathway promotes cell survival, growth, and proliferation. Akt, a serine/threonine kinase, plays a central role in this pathway by phosphorylating and inhibiting pro-apoptotic proteins, such as Bad, and activating proteins involved in cell growth, such as mTOR.

In addition to these signaling pathways, other factors, such as nutrient availability, oxygen tension, and DNA damage, can also influence cell population proliferation. For example, cells require adequate nutrients and oxygen to sustain their growth and division. Damage to DNA can trigger cell cycle arrest or apoptosis to prevent the propagation of damaged cells.

Overall, the regulation of cell population proliferation is a highly intricate and tightly controlled process involving a multitude of signaling pathways, regulatory proteins, and environmental factors. It is essential for maintaining normal tissue function and preventing the development of disease.'
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Proteins (167)

Compounds (3,604)