Fibroblast growth factors: key players in epithelial morphogenesis, repair and cytoprotection.
Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) regulate early development and organogenesis. In particular, a subfamily of FGFs is essential for the formation and differentiation of epithelial tissues and organs. Recent studies revealed a crucial role for these FGFs in repair of the skin, intestine and liver. In addition, the cytoprotective potential of FGFs suggests their use for the protection of epithelial cells under conditions of stress in vivo. Indeed, the first successful clinical trials using FGFs for the treatment of radiation- and chemotherapy-induced mucosal epithelial damage have been announced.
Institute of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, ETH Zürich, Hönggerberg, CH-8093 Zürich, Switzerland. heike.steiling@rdls.nestle.com
Heike
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Steiling
Sabine
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Werner
D000818:Animals; D019610:Cytoprotection; D004847:Epithelial Cells / Q000502:physiology*; D051526:Fibroblast Growth Factor 10; D051523:Fibroblast Growth Factor 7; D005346:Fibroblast Growth Factors / Q000502:physiology; D051379:Mice; D018345:Mice, Knockout; D009024:Morphogenesis; D017468:Receptors, Fibroblast Growth Factor / Q000502:physiology; D012879:Skin Physiological Phenomena; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000502:physiology; D014945:Wound Healing
C496454:Fgf7 protein, mouse; D051526:Fibroblast Growth Factor 10; D017468:Receptors, Fibroblast Growth Factor; D051523:Fibroblast Growth Factor 7; D005346:Fibroblast Growth Factors