Heat shock proteins and cell proliferation.

Heat shock proteins (Hsps) carry out a number of essential functions in the cell. These functions could be utilized, in a developmentally regulated manner, to affect proteins necessary for cell growth and proliferation. Data showing Hsp involvement in cell proliferation under non-stress conditions are perhaps not altogether surprising in view of the important roles of Hsps in cell metabolism. In a number of cases stress can facilitate cell proliferation in cells which could otherwise not be amenable to this developmental pathway. It is proposed that Hsps could play an essential helper role in initiating this process.