Induction of Hepatocyte Growth Factor Production by Quercetin

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) exhibits mitogenic, motogenic, and morphogenic activities. Enhancing HGF production could serve as a therapeutic approach for organ regeneration, wound healing, and embryogenesis. Notably, HGF demonstrates therapeutic potential in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, we found that quercetin promotes HGF production in normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) at low concentrations. cAMP response element binding protein (CREB), a transcription factor, is phosphorylated. Additionally, this activity may result from quercetin's interaction with the β2 adrenaline receptor (β2AR). Further pharmacological analysis suggested that HGF production is promoted via PKA pathway. In conclusion, quercetin shows potential as a drug for treating organ-related diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, by enhancing HGF production.