HGF and neoplasm: CAFs include the stromal cells that are activated in response to TGF-β released from tumor cells; are involved in inflammation, epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), and angiogenesis; and secrete several growth factors (such as HGF-hepatocyte growth factor-, IGF-insulin-like growth factor, VEGF, EGF-epidermal growth factor, and PDGF-platelet-derived growth factor), cytokines (such as IL-1, IL-6, and IL-8), and enzymes (such as matrix metalloproteinases) [62].