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Fibroblast growth factor 21: a promising therapeutic target in obesity-related diseases

Bernard M Y Cheung1, H B Deng

  • 1Department of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.

Expert Review of Cardiovascular Therapy
|April 5, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a hormone that regulates metabolism and may improve insulin sensitivity. Elevated FGF21 levels in obesity and cardiovascular disease suggest altered responsiveness.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Metabolic research

Background:

  • Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a key metabolic regulator.
  • It influences glucose and lipid metabolism, particularly during fasting.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the physiological roles of FGF21.
  • To investigate the link between FGF21 and metabolic/cardiovascular diseases.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on FGF21.
  • Analysis of FGF21's role in metabolic regulation and disease pathophysiology.

Main Results:

  • FGF21 administration improves body weight, lipid profiles, and insulin sensitivity.
  • FGF21 is implicated in fasting adaptation, stimulating hepatic gluconeogenesis and adipose lipolysis.
  • Serum FGF21 is elevated in obesity, hypertension, atherosclerosis, and coronary artery disease, indicating potential resistance.

Conclusions:

  • FGF21 is a crucial hormone in metabolic homeostasis.
  • Its dysregulation and potential resistance in obesity and cardiovascular diseases warrant further investigation.
Keywords:
fibroblast growth factor 21metabolic syndromeobesity

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