The word ‘growth factor’ refers to diverse families of molecules that promote cell growth in specific contexts. The term ‘cytokines’ is at times used interchangeably with growth factor, but with a more immunological inclination. Among the diverse growth factors, epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like factors are clearly distinct as mediators of molecular events in periimplantation uterine biology and embryo implantation. Involvement of certain growth factors in early events of pregnancy have also been explored in various animal models. These animal models include, but are not limited to, rodents, domestic animals, and primates. Human samples are the frequent subjects of comparative investigation. In this article, we focus on one notable mediator of the embryo-uterine interaction during implantation, the heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor. It will help readers grasp how the idea was developed and experimentally executed to establish the function of the growth factor in embryo-uterine interactions during implantation. Expansive descriptions of studies of EGF in uterine biology of other species could not be included because of page limitations, but further readings are suggested at the end of this text.
