TGF-alpha polypeptides, functional fragments and methods of use therefor

摘要

Disclosed are peptides related to human TGF-alpha, having TGF-alpha biological activity, which are useful for many of the indications that full-length TGF-alpha polypeptide is useful. Also provided are methods of use of such peptides, as well as human TGF-alpha and biologically related polypeptides. For example, methods for treating or preventing cachexia in subjects are provided as well as methods for stimulating hematopoiesis in patients undergoing cytotoxic chemotherapy. In addition, the use of TGF-alpha related peptides to related neurodengenerative diseases is also provided. Methods of the invention also provide protection for patients undergoing cytotoxic therapy from side effects such as gastrointestinal (GI) mucositis.