Given below are two statements.

Statement I : Growth factors are the hormones secreted by several non-endocrine tissues.

Statement II : Growth factors are essential for growth but not for regeneration.

In light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below.

Statement I is correct, but statement II is incorrect.

• Statement I is true. Growth factors are indeed signaling molecules that are secreted by various cells, including non-endocrine tissues such as fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and immune cells. They play crucial roles in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, and survival during development, tissue repair, and homeostasis.
• Statement II is false. Growth factors play essential roles in repair and growth processes. They stimulate cell proliferation and tissue regeneration after injury, contribute to the growth and development of tissues and organs during embryogenesis and postnatal growth, and regulate various physiological processes throughout life. Therefore, growth factors are directly involved in repair and growth, contradicting Statement II.