The crosstalk between fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) system and substance use

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Endocrinology
• Addiction Medicine

Background:

• Substance use disorders (SUDs), including alcohol use disorder (AUD), disrupt central and peripheral nervous system communication.
• Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), a hormone regulating energy homeostasis, influences alcohol and other substance use.
• The liver-brain axis involvement in AUD pathogenesis requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the association between FGF21 and SUDs through a scoping review.
• To elucidate the relationship between FGF21, alcohol consumption, and other substance use.

Main Methods:

• Scoping review of existing literature.
• Analysis of studies investigating FGF21 levels in relation to alcohol and substance use.
• Examination of molecular pathways modulated by FGF21.

Main Results:

• An inverse relationship exists between FGF21 levels and alcohol consumption: increased FGF21 reduces intake, while suppressed FGF21 enhances it.
• Alcohol elevates hepatic FGF21 production, which signals the brain to decrease alcohol intake.
• FGF21 activation protects against alcohol-induced hepatic fat accumulation, oxidative stress, and inflammation.

Conclusions:

• FGF21 exhibits a bidirectional association with alcohol consumption.
• The FGF21 system presents a potential therapeutic target for AUD and alcohol-associated liver disease.
• Further research into FGF21-based pharmacotherapies is warranted.