Fibroblast growth factor receptor

Fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) is a family of receptor tyrosine kinases which play a vital role in cellular proliferation, differentiation, and migration. These receptors are involved in a variety of biological processes and are linked to a number of disease conditions when mutated.

Structure

FGFRs are composed of three extracellular immunoglobulin-like domains, a single hydrophobic transmembrane domain, and a cytoplasmic tyrosine kinase domain. The extracellular portion of the receptor is involved in ligand binding, while the intracellular portion is responsible for the receptor's role in signal transduction.

Function

FGFRs bind to fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) to initiate a cascade of downstream signals, which lead to the regulation of important biological processes. These include cell growth and differentiation, tissue repair, tumor growth and invasion.

Clinical significance

Mutations in FGFRs have been associated with a range of developmental syndromes, known as FGFR-related craniosynostosis syndromes, which involve abnormalities of the skull, face, hands, and feet. Additionally, mutations in FGFRs have been identified in numerous types of cancer, including lung, breast, and bladder cancer.

See also

• Fibroblast growth factor
• Receptor tyrosine kinase
• Signal transduction