Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) (FGF2)

Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), also known as basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), is a potent mitogenic polypeptide that plays a critical role in various physiological processes including cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation [UniProt: P09038]. It belongs to the heparin-binding growth factor family and exerts its biological effects by binding to and activating high-affinity fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) on the cell surface [PubMed: 15591234]. In healthy tissues, FGF2 is essential for wound healing, tissue repair, and angiogenesis, facilitating the formation of new blood vessels [StatPearls: NBK545235]. However, its overexpression is frequently linked to the progression of various cancers, where it promotes tumor growth, survival, and metastasis by stimulating the tumor microenvironment [PubMed: 29151570]. Therapeutically, recombinant FGF2 (trafermin) is utilized to accelerate the healing of chronic wounds and skin ulcers, while inhibitors of the FGF2/FGFR signaling pathway are actively pursued as anti-cancer agents [NCBI: PMC4116293]. Managing FGF2 activity requires careful balance, as systemic administration can lead to unintended side effects like hypotension or the promotion of occult malignancies [PubMed: 10441436].

Other names

Basic fibroblast growth factorbFGFFGF-2Heparin-binding growth factor 2HBGF-2Prostatropin

Agonism of fibroblast growth factor receptors to promote tissue repair and angiogenesis; Inhibition of ligand-receptor binding or receptor tyrosine kinase activity to suppress tumor growth and vascularization.