FGF7 (human, recombinant)

Fibroblast growth factor 7 (FGF7), also known as keratinocyte growth factor (KGF), is a member of the FGF7 subfamily. It is composed of an N-terminal signaling region, which is cleaved prior to secretion, a Calpha backbone, a heparin-binding domain, and a receptor-binding domain. FGF7 is secreted by stromal fibroblasts and forms a quaternary complex with FGFR2b dimers, and to a lesser extent FGFR1b dimers, with heparan sulfate proteoglycans to induce ERK- or MAPK-induced proliferation in epithelial cells. It is also necessary for proper nephron and hippocampal development and post-radiation thymic regeneration in mice. Knockout of Fgf7 decreases cartilage erosion, osteophyte formation, bone density, and subchondral bone plate thickness in a mouse model of osteoarthritis induced by destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM). Increased levels of FGF7 in cancer-associated fibroblasts are correlated with increased arterial and lymphatic metastasis, increased amount of residual tumor following surgery, and advanced cancer staging in patients with ovarian cancer. Cayman's FGF7 (human, recombinant) protein can be used for cell-based assays. This protein consists of 162 amino acids and has a calculated molecular weight of 21 kDa.. Protein function: Plays an important role in the regulation of embryonic development, cell proliferation and cell differentiation. Required for normal branching morphogenesis. Growth factor active on keratinocytes. Possible major paracrine effector of normal epithelial cell proliferation. [The UniProt Consortium]