Heparin-binding EGF-like Growth Factor

**Definition:** An EGF family member that is expressed in a variety of hematopoietic, endothelial, vascular smooth muscle, and epithelial cells. It is synthesized as a transmembrane protein which is cleaved by proteases to produce the secreted form of the protein which has specificity for the EGF RECEPTOR and the ERBB-4 RECEPTOR. The membrane-bound form of the protein has been identified as the receptor which binds to and allows DIPHTHERIA TOXIN to enter cells.

**Tree numbers:** - D12.644.276.382.625 - D12.776.467.382.625 - D23.529.382.625

**Synonyms:** - Heparin-binding EGF-like Growth-Factor - HB-EGF