Introduction

Studies show that deer antler velvet is rich in various growth factors and cytokine signals, particularly hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), and pleiotrophin (PTN). These molecules bind to their respective receptors on progenitor cells in the bone marrow and activate the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK and PI3K/AKT signaling cascades, which lead to the proliferation and migration of endogenous mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) (Nature, ScienceDirect).

Direct experiments with isolated MSCs from antlers have demonstrated that the stimulatory effect of HGF via its receptor c-Met significantly increases the expression of RAS, MEK, ERK genes, as well as downstream mediators PI3K, AKT, Grb2, and Gab1. Overexpression of HGF results in extensive proliferation and migration of MSCs, whereas inhibition of HGF suppresses this effect (Nature).

The benefits are not limited to the direct supply of growth factors – several studies have shown that culture medium obtained from antler stem cells (AnSC-CM) itself induces significant changes in the expression of signaling pathways in human cell lines. For example, in prostate cancer cells, AnSC-CM modulated GRP78 receptors and the SRC/AKT pathway, leading to autophagy and apoptosis of malignant cells (PubMed, ResearchGate).

In addition to protein-based growth factors, deer antler also contains small molecules, such as N-acetylneuraminic acid (Neu5Ac) and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which promote osteogenesis through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and enhance the differentiation of MSCs into osteoblasts (BioMed Central).

Wound and Tissue Healing: Topical application of AnSC-CM shortens healing time for skin and corneal lesions and minimizes scarring compared to traditional treatments (MDPI, BioMed Central).

Bone and Cartilage Regeneration: In vivo fracture models have shown that antler extracts promote bone remodeling by increasing osteocalcin production and activating the BMP pathway.

Anti-fatigue and Anti-fibrotic Effects: Enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis and modulation of inflammatory cytokines lead to improved energy endurance and reduced risk of fibrosis in affected tissues (BioMed Central).

Summary

From growth factors (HGF, IGF-1, BMPs, PTN) and signaling lipids to polysaccharides – which specifically activate endogenous stem cells in the bone marrow. The mechanisms involve key Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK and PI3K/AKT cascades, explaining the broad potential application in regenerative medicine, from wound healing to the treatment of degenerative diseases.