epidermal growth factor catabolic process EGF catabolism epidermal growth factor breakdown EGF breakdown receptor-mediated EGF processing The chemical reactions and pathways resulting in the breakdown of epidermal growth factor (EGF), following internalization of the receptor-bound ligand into the signal-receiving cell. Full breakdown of epidermal growth factor results in a ligand that is unable to bind and activate its receptor. epidermal growth factor catabolism epidermal growth factor ligand processing GO:0007174 biological_process EGF receptor ligand processing intracellular EGF processing This term describes the breakdown of epidermal growth factor within the cell, following internalization. For proteolysis events that result in the maturation of an epidermal growth factor receptor ligand, see 'epidermal growth factor receptor ligand maturation ; GO:'. protein catabolic process negative regulation of epidermal growth factor receptor signaling pathway