FGF10

FGF10 is a member of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family. It encodes a secreted signaling protein involved in embryonic development and organogenesis, particularly limb development, lung branching, and morphogenesis of salivary and mammary glands. During development it is expressed mainly in mesenchymal tissues and acts in a paracrine manner on adjacent epithelial cells.

FGF10 signals through receptors of the FGFR family, most notably FGFR2b (the IIIb splice variant), in cooperation with heparan sulfate proteoglycans. Ligand–receptor binding activates downstream signaling pathways such as the Ras–MAPK and PI3K–AKT cascades, promoting cell proliferation, survival, and morphogenesis. In limb development, FGF10 from the mesenchyme helps maintain the apical ectodermal ridge by sustaining FGF8 expression in the overlying ectoderm, driving outgrowth and patterning.

Beyond limbs, FGF10 drives branching morphogenesis in the developing lung, as well as in salivary and mammary glands, and it participates in tissue repair processes in adults. Its activity is coordinated with other growth factors to shape organ formation and regeneration.

Clinical relevance: Mutations in FGF10 or in FGFR2 can cause Lacrimo-auriculo-dento-digital (LADD) syndrome, a disorder characterized by lacrimal and salivary gland hypoplasia, ear and dental anomalies, and limb defects. Aberrant FGF10 signaling has also been explored in lung diseases and wound healing contexts, and continues to be a focus in regenerative medicine research.