Which growth factor is primarily responsible for the proliferative phase of wound healing and stimulates angiogenesis and fibroblast migration?

• A TGF-β1 (Transforming Growth Factor-beta 1)
• B VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor)
• C EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor)
• D PDGF (Platelet-Derived Growth Factor) ✓

Explanation

PDGF is released from platelet alpha-granules during the inflammatory phase and is the primary chemotactic signal for fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells, initiating the proliferative phase. PDGF also stimulates macrophage and neutrophil migration into the wound. VEGF is the key mediator of angiogenesis during the proliferative phase. TGF-β promotes fibroblast differentiation into myofibroblasts and collagen synthesis (remodeling phase). EGF stimulates keratinocyte and fibroblast proliferation. In wound healing, PDGF is often considered the 'master switch' initiating healing cascades.

Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.