This gene encodes a growth factor that is a ligand for the epidermal growth factor receptor, which activates a signaling pathway for cell proliferation, differentiation and development. This protein may act as either a transmembrane-bound ligand or a soluble ligand. This gene has been associated with many types of cancers, and it may also be involved in some cases of cleft lip/palate. Alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene.,TGFA,TFGA,Cancer,Invasion and Metastasis,Signal Transduction,ErbB-HER Signaling Pathway,Cell Biology & Developmental Biology,Apoptosis,Growth factor,Immunology & Inflammation,NF-kB Signaling Pathway,Cardiovascular,Angiogenesis,Angiogenic growth factors,TGFA