Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF)

Connective tissue growth factor, commonly abbreviated CTGF and also called CCN2, is a secreted matricellular signaling protein in the CCN protein family. Rather than acting like a classical growth factor with one dedicated receptor and one simple effect, CTGF interacts with multiple receptors, extracellular-matrix components, and other signaling molecules .¹

CTGF expression is strongly induced in many forms of tissue injury and fibrosis, often downstream of transforming growth factor beta. It can promote processes such as fibroblast activation, extracellular-matrix production, cell adhesion, and tissue remodeling. In the liver, increased CTGF is associated with activation of fibrogenic cells and accumulation of scar matrix during chronic injury .¹

The term connective tissue growth factor can therefore be misleading if interpreted as a molecule that simply makes connective tissue grow. Its biological actions depend on cell type and context, and the modern CCN2 name emphasizes its membership in a multifunctional signaling family. CTGF is best understood as a regulator and amplifier of tissue-remodeling signals, especially in fibrotic environments, rather than as a stand-alone marker or cause of fibrosis .¹