Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) was originally discovered in the mid 1980’s almost simultaneously by Toshikazu Nakamura in Japan and George Michalopoulos in the US.  Originally described for its role in liver regeneration, HGF has become a central player in the overall metabolism and maintenance of the organism.  Along with its receptor, c-MET, HGF has roles in development, differentiation, epithelial and endothelial cell maintenance and repair involving virtually every organ system.  HGF is a crucial member of the innate immune system and is responsible for controlling then shutting down the wound healing process, including ischemia-reperfusion injury.  .