What Is Fibroblast Growth Factor 1?

Fibroblast growth factors (FGF) are used throughout the body to regulate tissue growth. Fibroblast growth factor 1, one of the first of these molecules discovered, affects the development of embryos, the growth of new blood vessels, and other important functions.

Background

• Fibroblast growth factor 1 is one of a family of 22 signalling molecules that affect cells including fibroblasts, a type of stem cell that grows connective tissue. FGF1 was one of the first members of this family to be identified and is sometimes identified as the "acidic" FGF.

Function

• FGF1 serves to initiate certain biochemical chain reactions by attaching to molecules called fibroblast growth factor receptors. These chain reactions stimulate cell division in many body systems.

Roles

• FGF1 is produced by many different types of tissue, including cells in the intestines, kidneys, nerves, liver, and muscles. It plays an important role in embryonic development, the growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), wound healing, and basic body functions (physiology), as well as the growth of tumors.

Therapeutic Use

• Blood-vessel growth stimulated by FGF1, artificially provided to islet cells in the pancreas, may make possible tissue transplants that will cure type 1 diabetes.