Evidence supporting the use of: Transforming growth factor
For the health condition: Surgery (healing from)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Transforming Growth Factor (TGF), particularly the beta isoform (TGF-β), is a cytokine that plays a crucial role in the regulation of cell growth, differentiation, and immune modulation. There is substantial preclinical and some clinical scientific evidence supporting its involvement in wound healing and tissue repair, processes that are central to recovery from surgery. TGF-β is known to stimulate the production of extracellular matrix proteins, promote fibroblast proliferation, and regulate inflammation—all essential for proper wound healing.
Animal studies have demonstrated that exogenous administration of TGF-β can accelerate wound closure and improve the strength and quality of healing tissues. In humans, research has focused on its role in reducing scarring, enhancing epithelialization, and overall improving postoperative recovery, though clinical data are more limited. Some recombinant or engineered TGF-related products have been investigated for topical or local application in surgical wounds, burns, and chronic ulcers with mixed but generally positive results.
However, the therapeutic use of TGF-β is complicated by its potential to promote fibrosis or excessive scar formation and even tumor progression under certain conditions. Therefore, while the scientific rationale and some evidence support its use to enhance surgical healing, safety concerns and the need for precise dosing and delivery methods mean that it is not yet widely adopted in clinical practice. More robust, controlled human studies are still required to confirm efficacy and safety across different surgical contexts.
More about Transforming growth factor
More about Surgery (healing from)
Other ingredients used for Surgery (healing from)
aloe verabovine gelatin
bromelain
collagen
gelatin
hyaluronic acid
iron
l-alanyl-l-glutamine
l-leucine
l-proline
magnesium
microcrystalline hydroxyapatite concentrate (MCHC)
omega-3 fatty acids
papain
protease
serratiopeptidase
vitamin C
vitamin E
zinc
Animal Tissue
Antler
Asiaticoside
Albumin
Acemannan
Animal protein
Beef Protein
Bone Marrow
Bovine Protein
Bone Protein
Connective tissue growth factor
Drynaria
Egg protein
Other health conditions supported by Transforming growth factor
AbrasionsArthritis
Autoimmune Disorders
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Chemotherapy (reducing side effects)
Cuts
Inflammation
Injuries
Ligaments (torn or injured)
Nerve Damage
Osteoporosis
Scars / Scar Tissue
Surgery (healing from)
Wounds and Sores