Regulation of pancreatic function by connective tissue growth factor (CTGF, CCN2)

Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) is a cysteine-rich matricellular secreted protein that regulates diverse cell functions including adhesion, migration, proliferation, differentiation, survival, senescence and apoptosis. In the pancreas, CTGF/CCN2 regulates critical functions including β cell replication during embryogenesis, stimulation of fibrogenic pathways in pancreatic stellate cells during pancreatitis, and regulation of the epithelial and stromal components in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. This article reviews the evidence establishing CTGF/CCN2 as an important player in pancreatic physiology and pathology, highlighting the specific cell types that are involved in each process and the importance of CTGF/CCN2 as a component of autocrine or paracrine signaling within or between these various cells. Translational applications, including the potential for CTGF/CCN2-based therapies in diabetes, fibrosis, or cancer, are discussed.