Fibroblast growth factor receptor 1c and β-Klotho receptor complex (FGFR1c/β-Klotho receptor complex)

The **Fibroblast growth factor receptor 1c and β-Klotho receptor complex** is a heteromeric structure composed of the receptor tyrosine kinase FGFR1c and the single-pass transmembrane protein β-Klotho. This complex is essential for the cellular actions of the endocrine hormones FGF21 and FGF19, which bind to β-Klotho with high affinity and simultaneously interact with FGFR1c. β-Klotho serves as a tissue-specific co-receptor that confers selectivity to FGF21 and FGF19, while FGFR1c mediates intracellular signal transduction upon ligand-induced activation. Upon binding of FGF21, the receptor complex signals through classic MAP kinase cascades and other pathways, primarily modulating glucose and lipid metabolism in metabolic tissues such as liver and adipose tissue. The FGFR1c/β-Klotho complex has emerged as an important therapeutic target for metabolic disorders, and is the focus of drug development efforts aimed at treating type 2 diabetes, obesity, and related conditions[1][2][3][5][7][8][9].

Other names

FGFR1c/β-Klotho complexFGFR1c and β-KlothoFGFR1c:β-Klotho complex

Activation of the receptor complex by FGF21 or FGF19 leads to downstream intracellular signaling via the MAP kinase cascade and other pathways, regulating metabolism and cellular responses[1][2][3][8]. β-Klotho acts as an obligate co-receptor, conferring FGF21/FGF19 specificity to FGFR1c[2][3][7].