Recombinant Human FGF-21

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF-21), is a secreted member of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family. FGF family members possess broad mitogenic and cell survival activities and are involved in a variety of biological processes including embryonic development, cell growth, morphogenesis, tissue repair, tumor growth and invasion (1). FGF-21 mRNA is most abundant in the liver. It is induced by a nuclear receptor heterodimer that includes RXR and utilizes Klotho family members for signal transduction. FGF-21 signals through the FGFR1c and FGFR4 receptors and stimulates insulin independent glucose uptake by adipocytes (2). It shows poor binding to the ECM and limited binding to heparin. FGF-21 decreases the expression of IGF-1, induces hepatic expression of IGFBP1 and blunts growth hormone signaling (3). Thus, FGF-21 may play a central role in inhibiting growth as part of its broader role in inducing the adaptive response to starvation. FGF21 has the potential to become a powerful therapeutic to treat hepatic steatosis, obesity and type 2 diabetes (4).