Growth stimulation of human melanocytes: Identification and characterization of melanoma-derived melanocyte growth factor (M-McGF)

The melanocyte growth stimulating factor from human melanoma cells grown in vitro [Eisinger, M. et al, (1985) Science 229 ,984–986] has been purified and identified as a 14kDa peptide. The activity was shown to be sensitive to acid and heat treatments but resistent to reduction. The factor has strong affinity for heparin-Sepharose and was separated into two fractions by ion-exchange chromatography. Based on its properties, it is grouped in the family of heparin-binding growth factors. Identification of this growth factor will provide a tool for studies of growth regulation of normal and transformed human melanocytes.