This study provides an overview of the biology and clinical use of haematopoietic growth factors, a complex family of molecules that controls the proliferation, differentiation and function of haematopoietic cell lineages.

This publication provides an up-to-date view of the biology and clinical use of haematopoietic growth factors (HGFs), a complex family of molecules which controls the proliferation, differentiation and function of haematopoietic cell lineages. The papers link the biology and therapeutic use of HGFs, emphasizing how optimal clinical use of these factors stems from basic knowledge of their functions and interactions. Contributors deal with the role of HGFs in the regulation of haematopoieses and the signal transduction pathways involved in HGF gene activation; the application of in vitro systems; the role of HGF in bone marrow transplantation; the effects of interleukin-1 on normal and leukemic haematopoietic cells; the therapeutic efficacy of erythropoietin; and the present clinical applications and future prospects of HGF. This information is of special interest to haematologists, oncologists, immunologists and bone marrow transplantation specialists.