Fibroblastgroeifactor

Fibroblastgroeifactor is a nonstandard term that is sometimes used to refer to the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family. The term appears in some non-English sources where a direct translation of “growth factor for fibroblasts” is used. In English literature, the standard designation is fibroblast growth factor (FGF). The FGF family comprises numerous ligands that regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, survival, and other aspects of development and tissue homeostasis.

Biologically, FGFs exert their effects by binding to fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFR1–FGFR4), which are receptor tyrosine kinases. Ligand binding promotes receptor dimerization and activation of downstream signaling pathways, including the MAPK, PI3K-AKT, and PLCγ cascades. Many FGFs require heparan sulfate proteoglycans as cofactors to stabilize the ligand-receptor complex. Endocrine FGFs (such as FGF19, FGF21, and FGF23) interact with the FGFRs in combination with the co-receptors α- or β-klotho, enabling systemic functions.

Roles in biology are diverse. FGFs are key drivers of embryonic development, organ formation, and limb patterning, and they participate in wound healing, angiogenesis, and tissue regeneration. Specific members have specialized roles: some promote vascular growth, others influence metabolic regulation or mineral/homeostasis. The functions of FGFs are tightly context-dependent, varying with tissue type, receptor availability, and cofactor presence.

Clinical and research relevance is considerable. Aberrant FGF signaling has been linked to cancer, fibrosis, and metabolic disorders, while controlled FGF signaling holds potential for wound healing and regenerative medicine. Therapeutic strategies focus on selective FGFs or FGFR modulators, with attention to delivery methods, stability, and safety concerns.