CONTROL OF HUMAN BONE-MARROW FIBROBLAST-LIKE CELL-PROLIFERATION

The influence of growth factors (GF) and some other biological active molecules on the human bone marrow fibroblast (HBMF) proliferation was studied in the monolayer system. The proliferation of HBMF, like othe r connective tissue cells, was serum- and GF-dependent. GF tested (EGF , FGF insulin) produced, both positive and. negative effects on HBMF p roliferation. It was also shown that phorobol ester, which activates p rotein kinase C, usually inhibited HBMF proliferation. It has been pro posed that this feature of HBMF is the cause of GF bifunctional action . It has been suggested that the ability of GF to inhibit HBMF prolife ration in some cases permits one to maintain cellular homeostasis in G F rich human bone marrow. HBMF of different hematological patients wer e characterized by individual differences in GF sensitivity. This may be secondary to the bone marrow cellular composition. For example, HBM F obtained from the bone marrow rich in total cells or megacaryocytes were more responsive to proliferation stimulating effect of GF.