FGF5

FGF5 or Fibroblast Growth Factor 5 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the FGF5 gene. It is part of the fibroblast growth factor family, which is involved in a variety of biological processes, including cell growth, morphogenesis, tissue repair, tumor growth, and invasion.

Function[edit | edit source]

FGF5 is a crucial regulator of hair length in mammals. It is a secreted signaling protein that binds to FGFR1 and FGFR2, two members of the fibroblast growth factor receptor family. By binding to these receptors, FGF5 can inhibit hair growth and induce the hair follicle to transition from the anagen (growth) phase to the telogen (resting) phase.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Mutations in the FGF5 gene have been associated with trichomegaly, a condition characterized by excessively long eyelashes, and alopecia, a condition characterized by hair loss. In addition, FGF5 has been implicated in the development of certain types of cancer, including breast cancer and prostate cancer.

Research[edit | edit source]

Research into FGF5 has focused on its role in hair growth and its potential as a target for hair loss treatments. Several studies have shown that inhibiting FGF5 can prolong the anagen phase of the hair cycle, leading to increased hair growth.