Modulation of energy balance by fibroblast growth factor 21

Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) are a superfamily of 22 proteins related to cell proliferation and tissue repair after injury. A subgroup of three proteins, FGF19, FGF21, and FGF23, are major endocrine mediators. These three FGFs have low affinity to heparin sulfate during receptor binding; in contrast they have a strong interaction with the cofactor Klotho/β-Klotho. FGF21 has received particular attention because of its key role in carbohydrate, lipids, and energy balance regulation. FGF21 improves glucose and lipids metabolism as well as increasing energy expenditure in animal models and humans. Conditions that induce human physical stress such as exercise, lactation, obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes influence FGF21 circulating levels. FGF21 also has an anti-oxidant function in human metabolic diseases which contribute to understanding the FGF21 compensatory increment in obesity, the metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes. Interestingly, energy expenditure and weight loss is induced by FGF21. The mechanism involved is through "browning" of white adipose tissue, increasing brown adipose tissue activity and heat production. Therefore, clinical evaluation of therapeutic action of exogenous FGF21 administration is warranted, particularly to treat diabetes and obesity.