The key difference between mitogen and growth factor is that mitogen is a small protein that induces the cell to begin cell division, while growth factor is a naturally occurring substance that is capable of stimulating cell proliferation, wound healing, and cellular differentiation.

How does a mitogen induce a cell to grow and divide?

Mitogens stimulated cell division by increasing the amount of G1 cyclins. G1 cyclin-CDK leads to active G1/S cyclin-CDK by increasing the transcription of G1/S cyclin and removing an inhibitor of G1/S cyclin-CDK.

What are the major classes of growth factor?

Types of Growth Factors

Class I comprises growth factors interacting with specific receptors at the cell surface and includes epidermal growth factor (EGF), growth hormone (somatotropin), and platelet- derived growth factor (PDGF).