positive regulation of growth

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that activates or increases the rate or extent of growth, the increase in size or mass of all or part of an organism. [GOC:go_curators]

Positive regulation of growth is a fundamental biological process that ensures the controlled and coordinated expansion of an organism, tissue, or cell population. It involves a complex interplay of signaling pathways, transcription factors, and regulatory proteins that orchestrate cell division, differentiation, and survival. This process is crucial for development, repair, and maintenance of biological systems.

**Key aspects of positive regulation of growth include:**

* **Stimulation of cell proliferation:** Growth factors, such as epidermal growth factor (EGF) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF), bind to their respective receptors, initiating signaling cascades that activate genes involved in cell cycle progression. This leads to increased DNA replication and cell division, contributing to the expansion of cell populations.
* **Inhibition of apoptosis:** Growth factors also promote cell survival by suppressing programmed cell death (apoptosis). They activate signaling pathways that block the expression of pro-apoptotic genes and enhance the expression of anti-apoptotic genes, preventing the elimination of cells.
* **Promotion of cell differentiation:** Growth factors can influence the specialization of cells by triggering the expression of genes specific to particular cell types. This allows for the development of diverse tissues and organs with specialized functions.
* **Nutrient uptake and metabolism:** Growth requires an adequate supply of nutrients, such as amino acids, sugars, and lipids. Growth factors can stimulate the uptake and utilization of these nutrients by cells, providing the building blocks and energy needed for growth.
* **Regulation by feedback mechanisms:** The process of positive regulation of growth is tightly controlled by feedback mechanisms. As cells grow and proliferate, they release signaling molecules that can inhibit further growth, preventing uncontrolled proliferation.

**Examples of factors involved in positive regulation of growth:**

* **Growth factors:** These are signaling molecules that stimulate cell growth and proliferation. Examples include epidermal growth factor (EGF), fibroblast growth factor (FGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and insulin-like growth factor (IGF).
* **Transcription factors:** These proteins bind to DNA and regulate the expression of genes involved in cell growth. Examples include Myc, E2F, and Rb.
* **Cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs):** These proteins control the progression of the cell cycle, ensuring that cells divide correctly.
* **Hormones:** Hormones such as insulin, thyroid hormone, and growth hormone can also play a role in regulating growth.

**Dysregulation of positive regulation of growth:**

When the positive regulation of growth is disrupted, it can lead to various disorders, including cancer, developmental abnormalities, and metabolic diseases. Cancer cells often exhibit uncontrolled growth due to mutations in genes involved in growth regulation.
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (4)