ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the basic biology of Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), with particular emphasis on its structure, function, and physiology. G-CSF is a member of the family of secreted glycoproteins that regulate the survival, proliferation, differentiation, and function of hematopoietic cells. As a framework for discussing these functions, the in vitro actions of G-CSF will be addressed initially, followed by reviews on the production of G-CSF, the function and distribution of its receptor, and the effects of G-CSF treatment in whole animals. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor may have effects outside the hematopoietic system. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor has also been investigated in nonneutropenic animal models of infection. When one considers its most specific action in vitro-the production of mature neutrophils from precursors-G-CSF could play a role in the regulation of hematopoiesis in two conceptually distinct settings. The chapter concludes with a summary of the evidence for key in vivo roles for G-CSF as an hematopoietic regulator.
