Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Definition of EGF
Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026
EGF: Epidermal growth factor. A polypeptide (small protein) that is a powerful mitogen. (It stimulates cells to enter mitosis, cell division. ) EGF promotes cell growth and differentiation, is essential in embryogenesis, and is important in wound healing. It is produced by many normal cell types and is made in large amounts by some tumors. The EGF gene is on chromosome 4q25 (whereas the gene for its receptor, EGFR, is on chromosome 7). The kidney is the main source of circulating EGF. EGF is also known as urogastrone (URG).