INSULIN-LIKE GROWTH-FACTORS AND CANCER

The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) family of peptides, binding prote ins, and receptors are important for normal human growth and developme nt and are involved in the specialized functions of most physiologic s ystems. Most members of the IGF system are expressed by different canc er cells and may play an important role in the propagation of these ma lignancies. New therapies aimed at modulating various components of th e IGF system could affect the progression and metastasis of cancer.