Melanocyte Growth Factor in Normal Human Skin

Abstract
Normal human skin is shown to contain melanocyte growth factor (MeGF). We found MeGF activity in extracts of both the epidermal portion of skin and the dermal portion. This activity was completely adsorbed onto heparin beads and eluted by 2.5 M NaCl. In addition, the activity of both extracts was completely blocked by antibodies directed against basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). It is suggested that melanocytes in epidermis are supported by bFGF-like MeGF in normal human skin.