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Fibroblast Growth Factor Signaling in Metabolic Regulation

Vera J M Nies1, Gencer Sancar2, Weilin Liu1

  • 1Center for Liver, Digestive and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen , Groningen , Netherlands.

Frontiers in Endocrinology
|February 3, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) show promise for treating metabolic diseases like obesity and diabetes. Understanding FGF signaling mechanisms is key to developing effective FGF-based therapies with fewer side effects.

Area of Science:

  • Metabolic diseases
  • Endocrinology
  • Molecular biology

Background:

  • Obesity is a growing health concern linked to serious comorbidities like type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
  • Current treatments for metabolic diseases often have adverse effects.
  • Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) play a crucial role in regulating energy metabolism.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the physiological roles of FGF signaling in metabolic homeostasis.
  • To discuss the pharmacological properties and effector tissues of FGFs in metabolic disease.
  • To summarize recent advancements in FGF variant development for therapeutic applications.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of current research on FGF signaling in metabolic health and disease.
  • Analysis of the known and potential therapeutic applications of FGFs and their derivatives.
  • Examination of the molecular mechanisms underlying FGF action.

Main Results:

  • FGF1, FGF19, and FGF21 exhibit beneficial metabolic effects.
  • FGF signaling pathways are critical for maintaining metabolic balance.
  • Developing FGF variants offers potential for targeted therapies with improved safety profiles.

Conclusions:

  • FGFs represent a promising therapeutic avenue for metabolic conditions.
  • Further understanding of FGF molecular mechanisms is essential for optimizing FGF-based treatments.
  • Targeted FGF therapies could offer improved efficacy and reduced side effects for metabolic diseases.
Keywords:
FGF signalingFGF1FGF19FGF21fibroblast growth factorsmetabolic syndrometherapeutic potential

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