Epidermal growth factor, EGF, is the founding member of the EGF family of proteins. By binding to its receptor epidermal growth factor receptor, EGFR, it stimulates cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation. It is known to be a potent mitogenic factor for cultured cells of ectodermal and mesodermal origin. EGF is involved in wound healing and is known to inhibit gastric secretion.