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Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 Mimetics for Treating Atherosclerosis

Kelvin H M Kwok1,2, Karen S L Lam1,2,3

  • 1State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

Endocrinology and Metabolism (Seoul, Korea)
|May 25, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) shows promise in treating atherosclerosis by improving lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity. FGF21 mimetics offer potential therapeutic strategies for this cardiovascular disease.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Metabolic Diseases
  • Cardiovascular Research

Background:

  • Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is an endocrine hormone regulating metabolism.
  • Elevated FGF21 levels correlate with atherosclerosis incidence and severity.
  • FGF21 influences glucose uptake, lipid metabolism, and insulin sensitivity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the physiological roles of FGF21.
  • To discuss FGF21 mimetic-based therapeutic strategies for atherosclerosis.
  • To highlight breakthroughs and limitations in FGF21-targeted therapies.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of FGF21's physiological functions.
  • Analysis of animal studies on FGF21 and atherosclerosis.
  • Evaluation of FGF21 mimetic development and clinical implications.

Main Results:

  • FGF21 demonstrates beneficial effects on lipid profiles in animal models.
  • FGF21 signaling pathways are crucial for lipid-lowering effects.
  • FGF21 mimetics show potential for treating dyslipidemia associated with atherosclerosis.

Conclusions:

  • FGF21 plays a significant role in metabolic regulation and cardiovascular health.
  • FGF21 mimetics represent a promising therapeutic avenue for atherosclerosis.
  • Further research is needed to overcome limitations of FGF21-based treatments.
Keywords:
AtherosclerosisDyslipidemiaFibroblast growth factor 21

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