= Fibroblast growth factor
= FGF
{c}
{synonym}
A <fibroblast growth factor> is a member of a signalling-protein family whose <receptor> interactions regulate processes including <cell proliferation>, survival and <cell differentiation>. Many members act through <FGF receptors>, a class of <receptor tyrosine kinases>. The historical family name does not limit their targets to fibroblasts. <Molecular Biology of the Cell, 4th edition by Bruce Alberts and others>[Chapter 15, Signaling through Enzyme-Linked Cell-Surface Receptors: growth-factor receptors]{ref}
<FGF8> provides a developmental example: localized production, <receptor> distribution and surrounding regulatory interactions help determine where cells respond. A signal's spatial effect depends on more than its concentration at the source. Detecting FGF expression therefore identifies a potential signalling input, while <receptor> activation and a subsequent change in cell fate require separate evidence.
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