Doctors of many specialties dream about the possibility of finding a remedy that would accelerate wound healing. At the same time, aesthetic medicine professionals want such a remedy not only to heal wounds on the skin faster, but to prevent severe scarring and transfer the process of tissue restoration to the most non-emergency, adaptive path. Recently, dermatologists and cosmetologists have been interested in products containing epidermal growth factor. the site believes that it holds the future in matters of healing skin lesions.

Importance of epidermal growth factor for human skin

Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) was discovered in 1962; scientists discovered it in the submandibular gland of a mouse, for which they later received a Nobel Prize. Later, epidermal growth factor was found in human salivary glands; it is present in phagocytes, platelets, blood plasma, saliva and urine, and breast milk.

Epidermal growth factor is a protein that stimulates cell growth, one of the most active among known polypeptide growth factors.

Epidermal growth factor is capable of stimulating cell proliferation and differentiation and restoring skin structure.

The EGF polypeptide binds to the corresponding receptor on the cell surface and stimulates the activity of intracellular thyrokinase proteins, triggering a cascade of the following biochemical changes:
. increase the concentration of intracellular calcium;
. enhance glycolysis processes;
. increases the rate of protein and DNA synthesis.

The result of these biochemical transformations is cell division. In the presence of epidermal growth factor, cell division occurs faster than without it.

In conditions of a deteriorating environmental situation, under the influence of smoking, poor nutrition, various infections and chronic diseases, the human body ceases to produce a sufficient amount of EGF. Therefore, the healing time of wounds and various skin lesions increases significantly. The use of EGF in cosmetics makes it possible to satisfy the skin's needs for this polypeptide.

Epidermal growth factor in cosmetic preparations: how it works

When the skin is damaged, the number of receptors that are sensitive to epidermal growth factor increases on the surfaces of cell membranes in the wound area. In response to this, its intensive movement from other tissues to the site of damage begins.

The growth factor connects with receptors, penetrates the cell, triggering complex chemical processes for the growth and differentiation of epidermal cells and other tissues.

At the same time, the immune system is activated, which seeks to reject damaged skin structures and this causes severe skin stress.

Thanks to epidermal growth factor, the damaged skin surface is lined with new cells, which promotes wound healing.

In response to skin stress, new cells are formed faster than under normal conditions. On the one hand, this prevents the development of wound infections, but on the other hand, it carries the risk of scar tissue formation. However, when applied topically, cosmetics containing epidermal growth factor reduce skin stress. Under their influence, their own tissue repair reserves are initiated, and wound healing processes proceed more neutrally, pathological scarring is prevented.

When using products with epidermal growth factor, the synthesis of hyaluronic acid, collagen and elastin gradually increases. As a result, the appearance of damaged skin quickly improves, which is especially important after traumatic facial cosmetic procedures.

Epidermal Growth Factor is a protein that stimulates the division, growth and differentiation of epithelial cells. It was discovered in the 60s of the 20th century in the USA by Professor Stanley Cohen and Rita Levi-Montalcini. For this discovery they were awarded the Nobel Prize. In-vitro tests on skin and epithelial tissues confirmed the fact that this substance stimulates cell growth and regeneration. More than 40 years have passed since the discovery of EGF, and all this time scientific research into the properties of epidermal growth factor has not stopped. It has now been clinically proven to be highly effective in combating all age-related skin changes. The discovery of EGF was the first step towards realizing the cherished dream of all humanity - to stop the aging process and restore youth to aging skin. It is also called the “beauty factor”.

Epidermal growth factor belongs to the group of growth factors (cytokines) and is a polypeptide. It consists of 53 amino acids, has a weight of 6021 Da, is resistant to acids and high temperatures and is one of the most stable of all proteins studied. Under normal conditions, it is found in platelets, phagocytes, urine, saliva, milk and blood plasma. Epidermal growth factor acts by binding to the epidermal growth factor receptor on the surface of cells and then stimulating the activity of intracellular tyrosine kinases. Tyrosine kinase proteins, in turn, transmit a signal inside the cell, which leads to various biochemical changes (increased intracellular calcium concentration and increased glycolysis, increased rate of protein synthesis, DNA synthesis), which ultimately leads to cell division. As a result, cell division in the presence of EGF occurs faster than cell division without it.

In conditions of deteriorating ecology, malnutrition, anemia, infection and dysfunction of various organs, regulatory processes are disrupted, a sufficient amount of EGF is not produced, so healing of damage and cell division takes much longer. The use of epidermal growth factor in cosmetics and medicines has made it possible to satisfy the tissue need for this substance. Clinical trials have proven that EGF improves the growth of epithelial, endothelial and fibroblast cells, improves tissue proliferation and cell chemotaxis, reduces healing time, and restores normal tissue functioning.

As you know, a person’s youth is determined by the ratio of young and old cells, and it is the epidermal growth factor that allows the reproduction of young cells and inhibits the manifestations of aging. Each person contains EGF in the body from birth, but is gradually eliminated from the body during life. Epidermal growth factor deficiency begins to be observed between the ages of 30 and 40, when noticeable signs of aging appear on the skin. With age, the skin's need for it continues to increase, and already at the age of 50-60, the use of products with EGF becomes extremely necessary. It is at this age that the effectiveness of using drugs with epidermal growth factor is most noticeable and tangible. Acting at the cellular level, EGF stimulates the growth and division of epidermal cells, nourishes, increases collagen synthesis, making the skin young and beautiful. As a result of regeneration processes, age spots disappear, the skin becomes lighter, and the pores become narrower. In addition, cosmetic products with epidermal growth factor promote deep hydration and stimulate the synthesis of hyaluronic acid, restoring radiance to the skin.

Trade name of the drug.
Ebermin

Dosage form.
Ointment for external use

Compound.
100 g ointment contains:
Active substances:
Recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) 0.001 g and silver sulfadiazine 1.0 g
Excipients (hydrophilic filler):
Stearic acid 18.00 g, potassium carbonate 0.50 g, methyl parahydroxybenzoate 0.18 g, propyl parahydroxybenzoate 0.02 g, glycerol 5.00 g and purified water. required

Description.
A white homogeneous mass with a soft creamy consistency and a weak characteristic odor.

ATX code.
D03AX: Other agents promoting scarring.

Pharmacological group.
Agents that improve tissue regeneration for topical use.

Pharmacological (immunobiological) actions.
Recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) is a highly purified peptide. It is produced by a strain of yeast Saccharomyces Cerevisiae, into whose genome the human epidermal growth factor gene has been introduced using genetic engineering methods. rhEGF, obtained on the basis of recombinant DNA technology, is identical in its mechanism of action to the endogenous epidermal growth factor produced in the body.

rhEGF stimulates the migration and proliferation of fibroblasts, keratinocytes, endothelial and other cells actively involved in wound healing, promoting epithelization, scarring and restoration of tissue elasticity.

Silver sulfadiazine has a broad spectrum of antimicrobial action; it is active against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, fungi of the genus Candida and dermatophytes.

The hydrophilic base of the ointment provides a moderate dehydrating effect, reduces pain, creates and maintains the necessary therapeutic concentrations of active substances in the lesion. Ebermin has a cosmetic effect, provides scar aesthetics by normalizing the orientation and ripening of collagen fibers, preventing pathological scarring.

Pharmacokinetics.
When the drug is applied to intact skin and burn wound surfaces, no reabsorption of rhEGF from the site of application into the systemic circulation is observed.

Indications for use.
The drug is used in adults and children over 1 year of age to treat superficial and deep skin burns of varying degrees; trophic ulcers (including chronic venous insufficiency, obliterating endarteritis, diabetes mellitus, erysipelas); bedsores; long-term non-healing wounds (including wounds of the stump, wounds during autodermoplasty in areas of lysis and between surviving autologous skin flaps, as well as residual wounds at donor sites); violations of skin integrity due to injuries, surgical and cosmetic interventions; frostbite; ulcers developing during the administration of cytostatics; treatment and prevention of radiation dermatitis (including during superficial radiotherapy).

Method of administration and dose.
Ebermin can be used at all stages of the wound process.

Beforehand, standard surgical treatment of the wound is carried out using antiseptic solutions in case of infection. After drying, a layer of ointment of about 1-2 mm is applied to the wound surface. In the closed treatment method, sterile gauze pads or occlusive film coverings are placed on top (healing in a moist environment). In some cases, for example, with superficial shallow (I-II degree) and partially deep (III degree) burns, it is possible to use an ointment with atraumatic mesh wound coverings.

With the wet healing method, as well as severe exudation, it is recommended to apply the ointment once a day. With moderate or scanty exudation, the ointment can be applied once every 2 days. If the dressing sticks to the wound and to prevent unwanted drying of the wound surface, it is recommended to moisten the napkin applied over the ointment with a sterile 0.9% sodium chloride solution or antiseptic solutions. With the open (bandageless) method of treatment, the ointment is applied 1-3 times a day.

Toilet the wound before repeated applications of the ointment using a sterile 0.9% sodium chloride solution or antiseptic solutions. The procedure is performed carefully, avoiding injury to the resulting granulation tissue and growing epithelium when removing ointment residues.

Treatment is continued until the wound is epithelialized or is ready for plastic closure with a skin flap.

To prevent radiation dermatitis, a 1 mm layer of ointment is applied to the irradiated area of ​​skin without removing it from the application site for 6-8 hours after irradiation. The use of the ointment is continued daily throughout the course of radiotherapy and is not interrupted in case of forced skipping of any of the radiation procedures.

Side effect.
The drug is well tolerated. In rare cases, it is possible to develop

Allergic reactions characteristic of sulfonamide drugs and drugs containing silver;
- the appearance of a burning sensation, pain, tightness and discomfort in the area where the ointment is applied (usually goes away on its own within 5-10 minutes after applying the bandage).

Contraindications.
- Hypersensitivity to sulfonamides, silver and other components of the drug.
- Children's age up to 1 year.

The drug should not be used on areas with active tumor lesions or to stimulate scarring in areas of surgical excision of tumors.

Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Ebermin has not been sufficiently studied regarding the effects on the fetus or infants, therefore its use is not recommended during pregnancy and lactation. If a pregnant or breastfeeding woman has a lesion that can be treated with Ebermin, the doctor must determine the risk-benefit ratio and decide on its use.

Interaction with other drugs.
No incompatibility or interaction with other medications was noted.

Overdose.
There have been no cases of overdose.

Special instructions.
Use with caution in case of congenital deficiency of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, insufficiency of liver and kidney function.

With the open (bandage-free) method of treatment, direct exposure to sunlight on the area where the ointment is applied should be avoided.

Release form.
30 g each in sterile white matte bottles made of high-density polyethylene, with a sterile pressure cap and a safety seal.

200 g in sterile white matte bottles made of high-density polyethylene with a screw cap made of white polypropylene and a sealing gasket (linner) made of low-density polyethylene.

1 bottle in a cardboard box with instructions for use.

Storage conditions.
At a temperature of 15 to 25 ° C, protected from light and out of the reach of children.

Best before date.
2 years. Do not use after the expiration date stated on the package.

Conditions for dispensing from pharmacies.
By doctor's prescription.

Applicant.
JSC "Eber Biotek": Prospekt 186 and st. 31, Cubanacan, Playa, Havana, Republic of Cuba

Manufacturer.
Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology: 31 avenue, between streets 158 and 190 Cubanacan, Playa, Havana, Republic of Cuba.

Today I will talk about the “great and terrible” epidermal growth factor (EGF) - a component of anti-aging cosmetics, which is considered one of the most effective and efficient, but at the same time it is also one of the most controversial.

Recently, questions about this component began to appear quite often in the comments, so I decided to write a post about it so as not to repeat myself dozens of times (let me remind you that the post with questions is here - "Q&A" , it is always easy to find in the upper right part of the blog, ask your questions there, and subscribe to comment updates if you want to see new questions and answers).

What is this?Epidermal growth factor or in general growth factors (EGF, Epidermal Growth Factor, HGF, TGF, etc.) are special polypeptides that stimulate skin growth at the cellular level, that is, they regulate cell growth and division. Growth factors exist in the human body, and in a hundred different forms, they control more than three hundred types of cells in our body, are responsible for their division, for the healing of the skin (for example, in saliva they are responsible for the healing of minor injuries in the stomach), for the growth of bones and etc. The Nobel Prize was awarded for the discovery of growth factors ( link ).

Previously, it was extremely difficult to isolate growth factors, which is why they were prohibitively expensive - their cost reached several million dollars, but at the beginning of the 21st century, with the help of new technologies and genetic engineering, their obtaining became much easier, now these components have become more accessible, their including synthesis, and, as expected, they began to be added to cosmetic preparations. But in any case, these are still expensive components, so really working growth factors can only be found in fairly expensive cosmetics, but the dominance of inexpensive Asian creams with EGF makes you smile - you shouldn’t hope that such cosmetics will have an effect at the cellular level, rather, in such products only the name comes from it :).

.

What do cosmetics with them give: With age, the body's natural production of growth factors slows down, due to which the skin becomes thinner and its tone decreases, so the use of cosmetics containing them seems to be more than justified. As I noted above, growth factors stimulate cell division, renew the skin, enhance the synthesis of collagen and elastin (especially transforming growth factor - TGF), increase density and elasticity, promote skin rejuvenation at the cellular level, and also accelerate the healing of burns, wounds and skin lesions. damage.

And everything seems fine: and we have learned to isolate them, and their effectiveness has been proven, but what’s wrong? All varieties of GF have disadvantages, one of which is extremely serious, more about it below.

Cons:~ suggest that when exposed to growth factors, the growth of not only healthy cells is stimulated, but... also cancerous ones. Particularly in cosmetic products, it can speed up the division of bad skin cells, thereby stimulating the development of skin cancer. Here, as they say, no comments;

~ transforming growth factor (TGF) stimulates collagen production so intensely and excessively that it can promote scarring (so everything is good in moderation and this does not only apply to growth factors: using a few or too many strong products with active collagen stimulants does not always work for the benefit - and these include active products with vitamin C, and retinol products, and products with specific peptide complexes, so it’s not only with growth factors that you should be careful).

.
.

How to find these components in cosmetics? Here is the name and synonyms that can be used to designate growth factors in cosmetic products: EGF, Epidermal Growth Factor, Human Epidermal Growth Factor (hEGF), HGF, Human Epidermal Growth Factor, rh-Oligopeptide-1 (there may be different numbers here), sh -Oligopeptide-1,sh-Polypeptide-1, rh-Polypeptide-1, transforming growth factor TGF.

Conclusion: I choose cosmetics for myself WITHOUT this component (and I don’t plan to try it in the future), but in general everyone decides for themselves what to use. The only thing that can be reassuring and pleasing is, as I wrote at the beginning, that in most inexpensive cosmetic products EGF or other growth factors are indicated only on the label, but in reality they do not have an effect on cells. Although, who knows, maybe the same Koreans have now learned how to make it for pennies, they can...

And be healthy!

Many questions arise about growth factors: why are growth factors needed in skin rejuvenation creams, shampoo, and eyelash conditioner? Let's try to clarify this point, since changes in popular beauty products arouse constant interest among consumers. It turns out that there are dozens of growth factors, and they are still being discovered. According to biologists, the growth factor marked the beginning of a new round in the development of cell biology and significantly changed views on the processes occurring in living organisms.

Growth factor - a mysterious ingredient in cosmetology

The discovery of a substance called growth factor was made by biologists Stanley Cohen and Rita Levi-Montalcini in the middle of the last century. Nerve endings begin to grow in living cells, developing well in any organ and even in a cancer tumor. It was this “tumor extract” that was called a growth factor – NGF (nerve growth factor). Discoveries, meanwhile, continue to this day.

Any growth factors regulate the multiplication of cells, select their purpose, and allow organs and tissues to function properly. Today it is known that growth factors are produced by all living cells: the epidermis produces keratinocytes, dermis cells produce fibroblasts, and pigmentation cells produce melanocytes.

Absolutely all growth factors activate processes to restore the elasticity and density of the skin. They work on the principle of a chain reaction and do not work alone. That is why cosmetologists advise using the entire complex to achieve and maintain a long-term effect of skin rejuvenation.

As a rule, these are additional, but no less important skin products:

• moisturizing components of the cream;
• nourishing oils;
• cleansing serums;
• elasticity-restoring collagen cells, etc.

Growth factors and their effect on body rejuvenation

The most important feature of the influence of growth factors of cosmetics is that they affect both external and internal processes of rejuvenation of the body. At a deeper level, the same important processes occur as on the surface.

Based on the recommendations for the use of anti-aging creams, you can select the required amount of growth factors to achieve the best results. The older we become, the more hidden processes occur with our skin and the body as a whole. Labels often indicate the age category of the consumer for whom the product is suitable - this minimizes consumer stress during the selection process. A properly selected cream or cosmetic product will achieve positive results:

• reduce wrinkles;
• reduce skin pigmentation;
• pause or stop collagen loss;
• protect from solar activity (UV filters);
• provide skin hydration and nutrition;
• stop the thinning of the dermis;
• reduce loss of elasticity;
• tighten skin pores;
• even out complexion.

Popular growth factors in cosmetology: EGF, VEGF and HGF

It is worth remembering that a popular remedy will not solve all your problems if you make the wrong choice. On the labels, the composition of the product is indicated in small print, but the question, meanwhile, is important.

Below are some of the most popular ingredients that may be found in mature skin care products.

1. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) – enhances the synthesis of substances, called the “beauty factor”.
2. Transforming – enhances collagen production (TGF-b1, -b2, -b3).
3. Keratinocyte – triggers epidermal cell division (KGF).
4. Insulin-like – division and growth of skin cells (IGF1).
5. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF).
6. Vascular (VEGF) – accelerates the formation of blood vessels (fights hair loss).

For the best results, use product samples, then you definitely won’t go wrong when choosing the best skin care option for yourself.

The benefits and harms of anti-aging products with growth factors

So, the remedy has been chosen, and you have begun the rejuvenation procedures. Are there any general recommendations for the use of anti-aging new products? It turns out there is! Experts do not recommend daily use of cosmetics with growth factors! They are suggested to be used only by absolutely healthy people and no more than a couple of times a week, leaving the usual caring cream, milk or water for care on other days.

When using anti-aging agents with growth factors in combination, it is strongly recommended not to extend the time of use and to take long (several months) breaks between their use. It is obvious that growth factors can bring both benefit and harm. The difference is how often you intend to use them: 2 courses per year, or once a week all year.

allseason.ru > All articles > New publications > Facial care> Growth factors

Mysterious growth factors have become one of the most popular ingredients in cosmetology in recent years. Any mention of them - “cream with growth factor”, “gel for eyelashes with growth factor” - makes the product more popular, according to marketers. However, not only potential buyers of cosmetics, but also many cosmetologists do not understand very well what these factors are and what they can increase. And most importantly, why is this good?

The first substance called growth factor was discovered by biologists Stanley Cohen and Rita Levi-Montalcini in 1952. After transplanting an extra limb into a chicken embryo, they discovered that the embryo developed extra nerve endings around the graft. Then they transplanted mouse tumor cells into the same unfortunate embryo, and sensitive nerve endings appeared in the tumor! The extract isolated from the tumor was called a growth factor: NGF (nerve growth factor) - nerve tissue growth factor. In 1959, another nerve growth factor was isolated from snake venom, and in 1962, the first epidermal growth factor was discovered - it was found in the submandibular gland of a mouse. The researchers even received a Nobel Prize for their discovery, although only in 1986. Today, dozens of different growth factors have been discovered, and their number continues to increase. Biologists believe that growth factors marked the beginning of a new era in cell biology and significantly changed views on the processes occurring in the human and animal bodies.

If we describe the mechanism of action of growth factors as simply as possible, we can say that they regulate the growth and reproduction of cells, their differentiation (the transformation of unspecialized cells into specialized ones), and maintain the healthy state and functioning of all organs and tissues.

As it turned out, any cell in the body produces certain growth factors. For example, epidermal cells (keratinocytes), dermal cells (fibroblasts) and pigment cells (melanocytes) secrete and respond to different factors. All growth factors activate biochemical processes aimed at restoring and regenerating the skin, increasing the volume of synthesis of collagen and elastin fibers, which helps restore skin elasticity and density.

Various factors interact with each other, being synergists, that is, friendly to each other. Increasing the activity of one factor stimulates the activity of another, and so on, along the chain. But not a single factor in isolation can create the effect of true skin rejuvenation - they only activate biochemical reactions; In order for them to be fully realized, preserved skin reserves are necessary. Therefore, the use of drugs with growth factors does not exclude the use of nutritional, moisturizing and other agents.

Any cosmetic product that contains one or more growth factors can be considered cosmeceutical, that is, it not only improves the appearance of the skin, but also affects its deeper structures.

An important feature of growth factors is that they interfere with the processes of “internal aging”, along with “external” ones. In recent years, quite a lot of research has been carried out confirming that cosmetics containing one or more growth factors, the amount of which corresponds to the physiological characteristics of the skin, can reduce the signs of aging, slow down and even partially reverse the processes of external and internal aging. It is believed that by using growth factors it is possible to change the "hardwired tendency" of cells to stop reproducing or dividing; reduce the loss of skin collagen (normally, every year of life after 25 years we lose about one percent of collagen); slow down the thinning of the dermis; reduce damage to elastin. External aging involves changes that occur as a result of exposure to ultraviolet radiation, smoking, etc. Growth factors can restore damaged blood vessels, reduce dry skin, tighten pores and even out complexion.

Until the age of 25, our skin has enough of its own growth factors, but then their quantity and activity decrease every year. The use of growth factor products, theoretically, helps compensate for age-related deficits.

Many growth factors are used in cosmetology, the most popular of which is probably epidermal growth factor (EGF).

In addition to this, you can find the following ingredients on the label of creams for aging skin:

Transforming growth factor (TGF-b1, -b2, -b3);
- vascular growth factor (VEGF);
- hepatocyte growth factor (HGF);
- keratinocyte growth factor (KGF);
- fibroblast growth factor (bFGF);
- insulin-like growth factor (IGF1);
- platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF-AA).

Transforming growth factor enhances the synthesis of new collagen, keratinocyte accelerates the division of epidermal cells, insulin-like and platelet-like regulate and accelerate the growth and division of skin cells. Hepatocyte and vascular growth factors stimulate the growth of new blood vessels in the skin. It should be noted that the growth of new blood vessels can lead to increased sensitivity, so drugs containing VEGF and HGF should not be used for sensitive, irritated and damaged skin. However, it is these growth factors that are used successfully in the treatment of baldness and other hair-related problems. Fibroblast growth factor is used to stimulate the growth of eyelashes: it is part of most famous products with which you can quickly achieve “fan” eyelashes.

Epidermal growth factor has a fairly wide range of effects: it stimulates cell growth and division, and renewal of the epidermis. When using products containing EGF, there is a gradual increase in the synthesis of DNA, RNA, hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastin. As a result, they can quickly improve the appearance of aging skin. Epidermal growth factor is even called beauty factor.

All growth factors are small in size and have a fairly low molecular weight: for example, EGF has an atomic mass of about 6,200 daltons and consists of 53 amino acids. That is, he is capable quite easily

penetrate the skin, breaking its protective barrier. For faster delivery of growth factors, transport systems (nanosomes, liposomes, etc.) can also be used.

In essence, the main question regarding the use of growth factors in cosmetology is: how safe is it? The fact is that growth factors can play not only a “good role” (in particular, when they are produced by the body during injuries and promote healing).

On the labelsgrowth factors, according toINCI, are designated as follows:
rh-Oligopeptide-1,
sh-Oligopeptide-2,
sh-Polypeptide-1,
rh-Polypeptide-3,
sh-Polypeptide-9,
sh-Polypeptide-10,
sh-Polypeptide-11,
sh-Polypeptide-19, etc.

Othertitles:
E.G.F.
FGF-7
KGF-1
heparin-binding growth factor 7 (HBGF-7),
VEGF, FGF,
I.G.F.
TGF et al.

An increase in the amount of growth factors is observed in many types of tumors, and their amount can also increase in autoimmune diseases: for example, in rheumatoid arthritis, high concentrations of VEGF are found in the joints and skin.

Some researchers believe that the constant use of cosmetics containing growth factors can trigger the development of tumors or other health problems. In addition, a possible increase in the risk of severe scarring and even the development of keloid scars at the site of injury and damage is associated with the use of TGF. The use of products to stimulate eyelash growth has also given rise to debate: ophthalmologists believe that they can cause eye inflammation. There is also no complete confidence that growth factors actually penetrate into the deep layers of the skin and can seriously affect the aging process.

The body's ability to heal itself is amazing. Scientists have been studying the mechanisms of this phenomenon for decades, and in 1986, Stanley Cohen and Rita Levi-Montalcini recreated epidermal growth factor. They were able to understand how cells communicate with each other during their development and growth. This has forever changed the approach to skin rejuvenation.

What is it

Growth factors are a group of small proteins that regulate cell growth, development and activation. These are army commanders who issue commands; they can trigger entire cascades of reactions, changing the functioning of cells and regulating the functioning of certain genes.

There is already evidence that the signs of skin aging can be significantly reduced by using a balanced mixture of growth factors, because regenerative functions fade with age. Cosmetic growth factors are obtained from the simplest bacterium - Escherichia coli E. coli.

How does this work

The starting point was the study of the mechanism of wound healing. Studies have shown that a mixture of epidermal growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, transforming growth factor beta and platelet-derived growth factor significantly reduces healing time without the formation of dense scar tissue. Moreover, each of the “commanders” is responsible for a specific area. It is important to understand that growth factors do not work alone, this is an army where everyone clearly knows their responsibilities.

It is worth recalling that the inflammatory reaction occurs in the skin almost constantly; it is provoked by psychological stress, UV radiation, and poor nutrition. That is, recovery is required not only for cuts and abrasions.

What to look for on the label

The most common growth factors found in cosmetics are those that stimulate proliferation, i.e., cell division. As a rule, these are complex names, and often even a letter code, but if you decipher the names, it is usually clear what they are for in a cosmetic product.

Epidermal growth factor. On the label it looks like RH-oligopeptide 1 or EGF. It increases the number of stem cells in the skin, causing them to divide, promotes rapid healing and stimulates collagen synthesis. Its area of ​​application is restorative products after acid peels or microdermabrasion.

Formula, chemical name: no data.
Pharmacological group: regenerants and reparants.
Pharmacological action: stimulating regeneration, wound healing, stimulating epithelialization.

Pharmacological properties

Human recombinant epidermal growth factor is a highly purified peptide that consists of 53 amino acids, has a molecular weight of 6054 daltons and an isoelectric point of 4.6. Human recombinant epidermal growth factor is produced by a strain of the yeast Saccharomyces Cerevisiae. Using genetic engineering methods, the recombinant human epidermal growth factor gene was introduced into the genome of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae. Human recombinant epidermal growth factor, which is obtained on the basis of recombinant deoxyribonucleic acid technology, is identical in its mechanism of action to the endogenous epidermal growth factor, which is formed in the human body. Human recombinant epidermal growth factor stimulates the proliferation of keratinocytes, fibroblasts, endothelial and other cells that take part in wound healing, promotes epithelization, scarring, and restoration of tissue elasticity.
Human recombinant epidermal growth factor is not detected in blood serum, but is found in platelets (approximately 500 mmol per 1012 platelets). In many patients, the time to reach the maximum concentration of the drug in the blood serum after injection into the affected area ranged from 5 to 15 minutes. The average area under the concentration-time pharmacokinetic curve after the first administration of human recombinant epidermal growth factor at a dose of 75 mcg and 27 days after administration was 198 and 243 pg hour/ml, respectively, and the average maximum concentration of the drug in the blood was 1040 pg/ml. The half-life and mean retention time of human recombinant epidermal growth factor in the body were close to one hour. Complete clearance of human recombinant epidermal growth factor occurs in approximately two hours. When recombinant human epidermal growth factor is applied topically to intact skin and burn wound surfaces, reabsorption of the drug from the site of application into the systemic circulation is not observed.

Indications

as part of the complex treatment of diabetic foot syndrome with non-healing within four weeks and deeper neuroischemic or neuropathic wounds with an area of ​​more than one square centimeter that reach a ligament, tendon, bone or joint.
(as part of combination preparations with silver sulfadiazine): trophic ulcers (including obliterating endarteritis, chronic venous insufficiency, erysipelas, diabetes mellitus); superficial and deep skin burns of varying degrees; bedsores; violations of skin integrity due to injuries, cosmetic and surgical interventions; long-term non-healing wounds (including wounds of the stump, wounds during autodermoplasty in areas of lysis and between established autologous skin flaps, residual wounds at donor sites); ulcers that develop when cytostatics are administered; frostbite; radiation (radiation) dermatitis (including during superficial radiotherapy), including prevention.

Method of application of epidermal growth factor and dose

Human recombinant epidermal growth factor is administered by injection; as part of combination preparations with silver sulfadiazine, it is used topically, externally.
Injection human recombinant growth factor is administered by injecting a previously cleaned wound, only in a specialized medical institution. Needling is carried out three times a week until the formation of granulation tissue, which should cover the entire surface of the wound, or up to 8 weeks (maximum duration of therapy). The wound surface should be covered with a neutral atraumatic dressing. If, after three weeks of using recombinant human epidermal growth factor, granulation tissue in the wound has not begun to form, then the presence of osteomyelitis or local infection must be excluded.
Before administering human recombinant epidermal growth factor, medical personnel who work with the drug should wash their hands well and wear sterile gloves. Human recombinant epidermal growth factor is used at the rate of one bottle per person. The wound surface should be cleaned using sterile saline and sterile dry gauze pads. It is necessary to measure the area of ​​the lesion in square centimeters. When using recombinant human epidermal growth factor in the form of lyophilized powder, before use, five milliliters of water for injection must be added to the vial, after which the drug is gently mixed for several seconds. Using the resulting solution, you can carry out up to ten injections, which contain 0.5 ml of solution. The prepared solution should be colorless and transparent, without visible particles. The resulting solution must be administered immediately after preparation. If the resulting product contains any solid particles or its appearance differs from that described above, the drug should not be administered and should be disposed of properly. To treat ulcers larger than 10 square centimeters, ten injections of 0.5 ml each are necessary. Injections must be made into soft tissues, evenly distributing the injection sites of the drug, first of all, cutting off the edges of the wound, then the wound bed. During injections, the depth of needle insertion should be approximately 5 mm. For the treatment of wounds with an area of ​​less than 10 square centimeters, only one injection of 0.5 ml of the drug should be used for each square centimeter of the lesion area. Thus, to treat a wound with an area of ​​4 square centimeters, only four injections of 1.25 ml of the drug should be performed. To reduce the risk of infection, each injection should be made with a new, sterile needle. After administration is completed, the ulcer should be covered with saline-moistened gauze or a moist dressing applied to create a clean, moist environment.
Locally, externally, recombinant human epidermal growth factor as part of combination preparations with silver sulfadiazine can be used at all stages of the wound process. Before applying the drug, standard surgical treatment of the wound is first carried out using, in case of infection of the wound, antiseptic solutions. After drying, a layer of ointment approximately 1 - 2 mm long is applied to the wound surface. With the closed method of therapy, film occlusive coverings (healing in a moist environment) or sterile gauze pads are placed on top. In some cases, for example, with superficial shallow (I - II degree) and partially deep (III degree) burns, it is possible to use an ointment with atraumatic mesh wound coverings. For severe exudation and wet healing, it is recommended to apply the ointment once a day. With scanty or moderate exudation, the ointment can be applied once every two days. When the bandage sticks to the wound and to prevent unwanted eavesdropping on the wound surface, it is necessary to moisten the napkins, which are located on top of the ointment, with sterile saline or antiseptic solutions. With the bandage-free (open) method of therapy, the ointment is applied 1 to 3 times a day. Before repeated applications of the ointment, the wound is treated using antiseptic solutions or sterile saline. The procedure must be carried out carefully in order to avoid injury to the resulting granulation tissue and growing epithelium when removing ointment residues. Therapy is continued until the wound is ready for plastic closure with a skin flap or until the wound is epithelialized. To prevent radiation dermatitis, a one-millimeter layer of ointment is applied to the irradiated area of ​​the skin, without removing it from the application site for 6 to 8 hours after irradiation. The drug is used every day during the entire course of radiation therapy and is not interrupted if any of the radiation procedures are forced to be missed.
Human recombinant epidermal growth factor is used as part of complex treatment (surgical debridement, antibacterial therapy) of diabetic foot syndrome.
Before introducing human recombinant epidermal growth factor, surgical treatment of the wound is performed in compliance with all rules of antisepsis and asepsis.
Before initiating therapy with human recombinant epidermal growth factor, it is necessary to exclude the malignant origin of the ulcer.
Human recombinant epidermal growth factor should be used with caution in patients with severe uncontrolled hypertension, severe carotid artery stenosis (less than 70% according to NASCET (North American Symptomatic Carotid Endarterectomy Trial)), heart valve disease (for example, aortic valve calcification).
In the presence of wound necrosis, surgical debridement of the wound is necessary before administration of human recombinant epidermal growth factor.
In the presence of an infectious process, including osteomyelitis, human recombinant epidermal growth factor can be used only after its complete resolution.
If there are signs of critical limb ischemia (the finger-brachial index is 0.5 or more, or/and the ankle-brachial index is 0.6 - 1.3, or/and the transcutaneous oxygen tension in the tissues is less than 30 mmHg ) the use of recombinant human epidermal growth factor is possible only after revascularization.
Frequency of adverse reactions (taking into account all patients who received therapy with human recombinant epidermal growth factor in clinical trials, including in the Russian Federation): 24.3% had tremor, 24.0% had pain at the injection site, 17.8% had a burning sensation at the injection site, 11.3% had chills, 4.4% had an infection at the injection site, 2.8% had an increase in body temperature, 1.2% of patients had a headache pain.
Burning and pain at the injection site of human recombinant growth factor were observed with similar frequency in patients receiving the drug and placebo; These adverse reactions are most likely associated with the drug administration procedure itself.
Approximately 10% to 30% of patients in all studies experienced shivering and chills. These reactions were often observed shortly after administration of recombinant human epidermal growth factor and were transient. These reactions were never severe and did not lead to discontinuation of therapy. In many cases, their association with human recombinant epidermal growth factor therapy was considered probable or certain.
Moderate or severe wound infections at the injection site were reported in 15 to 18% of patients in both the human recombinant growth factor and placebo groups, so these adverse reactions were not likely related to the use of the drug, but could be associated with the drug administration procedure.
All other adverse reactions were observed with a low incidence in the group of patients who received human recombinant epidermal growth factor and in the placebo group, so their relationship with the therapy is unlikely.
The contents of a vial of recombinant human epidermal growth factor are used for one patient only. Care must be taken to avoid the development of bacterial contamination and damage to the vials. It is necessary to use a new sterile needle for each injection of human recombinant epidermal growth factor in order to avoid any possible penetration of infectious agents into the affected area. For each injection, a needle change is necessary.
Unused human recombinant growth factor or its residues must be disposed of appropriately.
When using a bandage-free method of therapy with recombinant human epidermal growth factor as part of combination preparations with silver sulfadiazine in the form of an ointment, it is necessary to avoid direct exposure to sunlight on the area where the drug is applied.
There is no data on the negative impact of human recombinant epidermal growth factor on the ability to perform potentially hazardous activities that require increased concentration and speed of psychomotor reactions.

Contraindications for use

Hypersensitivity, diabetic ketoacidosis, diabetic coma, chronic heart failure class III - IV according to the New York Heart Association classification, fibrillation
atria with uncontrolled rhythm, severe atrioventricular block (III degree), the presence during the last three months of episodes of acute pathology of the circulatory system (acute severe cardiovascular condition) (including severe angina pectoris, acute myocardial infarction, transient ischemic attack, acute stroke, deep thrombosis veins, pulmonary embolism, thromboembolism phenomena), malignant neoplasms, active tumor lesions, stimulation of scarring in areas of surgical excision of tumors, the presence of wound necrosis (surgical debridement is necessary before the introduction of epidermal human recombinant growth factor), renal failure (with a glomerular filtration rate less than 30 ml/min), the presence of an infectious process (including osteomyelitis) (recombinant human epidermal growth factor is used after its complete resolution), the presence of signs of critical limb ischemia (the value of the ankle-brachial index is 0.6 - 1.3 and/or the size of the finger -brachial index is 0.5 or more, or/and transcutaneous oxygen tension in tissues is less than 30 mm Hg) (the use of human recombinant epidermal growth factor is possible only after revascularization), pregnancy, breastfeeding, age up to 18 years.

Restrictions on use

Heart valve lesions (eg, aortic valve calcification), severe carotid stenosis (less than 70% according to NASCET (North American Symptomatic Carotid Endarterectomy Trial)), severe uncontrolled arterial hypertension.

Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding

The use of human recombinant epidermal growth factor is contraindicated during pregnancy and during breastfeeding, since there is no data on the safety of the drug during pregnancy and during breastfeeding. During therapy with human recombinant epidermal growth factor, you must stop breastfeeding.

Side effects of epidermal growth factor

Headache, tremor, pain at the injection site, burning sensation at the injection site, chills, fever, infection at the injection site.
Interaction of epidermal growth factor with other substances
During the use of human recombinant epidermal growth factor, topical use of other drugs is not recommended.

Overdose

There is no evidence of overdose with recombinant human epidermal growth factor.

Trade names of drugs with the active substance epidermal growth factor

Eberprot-P®

Combined drugs:
Silver sulfadiazine + Recombinant human epidermal growth factor: Ebermin.