Role of hepatocyte growth factor and its receptor c-met in multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma is characterised by the clonal expansion of malignan t plasma cells. Recently, we reported that a new cytokine, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and its receptor c-met are related to this dise ase. Here we review the observations that associate HGF with myeloma. Malignant plasma cells produce HGF and express the receptor c-met. M any patients have elevated HGF levels, which is unfavourable both in terms of survival and response to treatment. Possible biological role s of HGF in this disease are discussed, with special focus on bone ho meostasis and its binding to heparan sulphate proteoglycans.