Fibroblast growth factor 14 (FGF14)

Fibroblast growth factor 14 (FGF14) is an atypical member of the fibroblast growth factor family, functioning as an intracellular protein primarily expressed in the central nervous system[1][2][3][4]. Unlike canonical FGFs, FGF14 does not act through cell surface FGF receptors but instead interacts directly with the intracellular domains of voltage-gated sodium (Na\(_v\)) channels, regulating their gating, localization, and neuronal excitability[1]. It is required for synaptic transmission, synaptic plasticity, and neurogenesis, and plays a fundamental role in neuronal and cognitive functions[1][2][3]. Mutations or deletions in the FGF14 gene are associated with spinocerebellar ataxia type 27, episodic ataxia, and have been implicated in a spectrum of cognitive, affective, and motor disorders, including schizophrenia, depression, and Alzheimer’s disease[1][2][3][4]. FGF14 is sometimes referred to as fibroblast growth factor homologous factor 4 (FHF4), SCA27, or NYS4, reflecting its disease linkages and genetic locus. Currently, no drugs are clinically approved to target FGF14 directly, but its role as a regulator of ion channel function and neuronal signaling makes it a subject of ongoing research in neurobiology and neurotherapeutics[1][2][4].

Other names

FHF4FGF-14FHF-4NYS4SCA27SCA27ASCA27Bfibroblast growth factor homologous factor 4nystagmus 4 congenital autosomal dominant