The priming/completion paradigm to explain growth factor-dependent cell cycle progression

Abstract

Approximately 50 years ago, researchers established conditions to maintain cells in tissue culture Likely et al. (1952) [Further studies on the proliferation in vitro of single isolated tissue cells. J Natl Cancer Inst 13, 177–184]; Scherer et al. (1953) [Studies on the propagation in vitro of poliomyelitis viruses. IV. Viral multiplication in a stable strain of human malignant epithelial cells (strain HeLa) derived from an epidermoid carcinoma of the cervix. J Exp Med 97, 695–710]; Eagle (1955a) [The specific amino acid requirements of a mammalian cell (strain L) in tissue culture. J Biol Chem 214, 839–852]; (1955b) [Nutrition needs of mammalian cells in tissue culture. Science 122, 501–514]. This simple model system set the stage for discovery of growth factors and the signaling systems that they engage to mediate cellular responses such as proliferation. The purpose of this review is to present the original view of how growth factors regulate cell cycle progression and an updated (priming/completion) version of how growth factors advance resting cells through the cell cycle.

• Cellular responses
• growth factors
• cyclin-dependent kinases
• platelet-derived growth factor