FGF7

FGF7‏‎ (Fibroblast Growth Factor 7), also known as Keratinocyte Growth Factor (KGF), is a protein that in humans is encoded by the FGF7 gene. It is a member of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family, which is involved in a variety of biological processes, including cell growth, morphogenesis, tissue repair, tumor growth and invasion.

Function

FGF7 is a potent growth factor for epithelial cells. It is produced by cells of mesenchymal origin and stimulates the proliferation of epithelial cells, including keratinocytes, the predominant cell type in the skin. FGF7 is crucial for the repair of injured or damaged skin and mucosal tissues, and has been used in clinical applications for the treatment of wounds and ulcers.

Structure

The FGF7 protein is a single-chain polypeptide of 194 amino acids, with a core of 140 amino acids that is highly conserved among members of the FGF family. The protein has a molecular weight of approximately 28 kDa.

Clinical significance

FGF7 has been shown to play a role in the development of certain types of cancer, including breast cancer and lung cancer. It is also involved in the pathogenesis of several other diseases, such as psoriasis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Therapeutic use

Due to its potent wound healing properties, FGF7 has been used in the treatment of various types of wounds and ulcers, including diabetic foot ulcers and pressure ulcers. It has also been investigated for its potential use in regenerative medicine, particularly in the field of tissue engineering.

See also

• Fibroblast growth factor
• Keratinocyte
• Epithelial cells
• Breast cancer
• Lung cancer
• Psoriasis
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease