Fibroblast growth factor 23

Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the FGF23 gene. FGF23 belongs to the fibroblast growth factor family which is involved in a wide variety of biological processes.

Function

FGF23 is a hormone that regulates phosphate homeostasis and vitamin D metabolism. It is produced by osteocytes and osteoblasts in bone. FGF23 acts on the kidney to decrease phosphate reabsorption and vitamin D production.

Clinical significance

Abnormal levels of FGF23 can lead to several medical conditions. High levels of FGF23 are associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD), where it contributes to lowering phosphate levels. In contrast, low levels of FGF23 can lead to hyperphosphatemia, a condition characterized by elevated phosphate levels in the blood.

Role in disease

FGF23 has been implicated in several diseases. In autosomal dominant hypophosphatemic rickets (ADHR), mutations in the FGF23 gene lead to an increase in the hormone's activity, causing low phosphate levels. In tumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO), tumors produce excess FGF23, leading to hypophosphatemia.

Research

Research is ongoing to understand the role of FGF23 in health and disease. Studies are investigating the potential use of FGF23 as a biomarker for CKD and other diseases.

File:Fibroblast growth factor 23.png

Fibroblast growth factor 23

See also

• Fibroblast growth factor
• Phosphate homeostasis
• Vitamin D metabolism
• Chronic kidney disease
• Autosomal dominant hypophosphatemic rickets
• Tumor-induced osteomalacia