Fibroblast growth factor 5 (FGF5)

Fibroblast growth factor 5 (FGF5) is a secreted signaling protein of the fibroblast growth factor family, encoded by the FGF5 gene in humans[1]. FGF5 binds to specific FGF receptors, particularly FGFR1, to regulate a variety of cell processes, most notably the control of hair follicle growth cycle by promoting transition from anagen (growth phase) to catagen (regression phase)[1][6]. FGF5 plays broader roles in embryonic development, tissue repair, cell proliferation, and may contribute to tumor growth and invasion as part of the FGF family’s signaling network[1][2][3]. Dysfunction or mutation of FGF5 is implicated in abnormal hair growth phenotypes and various experimental disease models, making FGF5 a potential therapeutic target, especially in hair growth disorders and select cancers. No approved drugs directly targeting FGF5 are established, but experimental antagonists and gene therapies are under study[1][6].

Other names

Heparin-binding growth factor 5HBGF-5Smag-82

Antagonists or inhibitors would function by blocking FGF5-mediated activation of FGFR1 or interfering with FGF5-FGFR binding, modulating downstream proliferative or hair cycle signaling[1][2][6].