FGF Signaling in Skeletal Development

Abstract

The fibroblast growth factor receptor family consists of four receptor tyrosine kinases which bind with varying affinity and specificity to a family of at least fifteen polypeptide ligands. The receptors and ligands perform many essential functions during growth, development and repair. Recent discoveries show that a growing number of skeletal abnormalities result from mutations in the fibroblast growth factor receptors. These findings have led to a greater understanding of the role of fibroblast growth factor signaling during skeletogenesis and have focused research interests on the effects of fibroblast growth factors on endochondral and intramembranous bone development.

Key Words:

• FGF signaling
• receptor tyrosine kinase
• intramembranous ossification
• limb development
• endochondral ossification
• skeletal dysplasia