Fibroblast Growth Factor 8 (FGF8) Active Protein

The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family. FGF family members possess broad mitogenic and cell survival activities, and are involved in a variety of biological processes, including embryonic development, cell growth, morphogenesis, tissue repair, tumor growth and invasion. This protein is known to be a factor that supports androgen and anchorage independent growth of mammary tumor cells. Overexpression of this gene has been shown to increase tumor growth and angiogensis. The adult expression of this gene is restricted to testes and ovaries. Temporal and spatial pattern of this gene expression suggests its function as an embryonic epithelial factor. Studies of the mouse and chick homologs revealed roles in midbrain and limb development, organogenesis, embryo gastrulation and left-right axis determination. The alternative splicing of this gene results in four transcript variants. [provided by RefSeq]

Function: Stimulates growth of the cells in an autocrine manner. Mediates hormonal action on the growth of cancer cells.

Subcellular location: Secreted.

Developmental stage: In adults expression is restricted to the gonads.

Involvement in disease: Defects in FGF8 are the cause of Kallmann syndrome type 6 (KAL6) [

MIM:612702]. Kallmann syndrome is a disorder that associates hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and anosmia. Anosmia or hyposmia is related to the absence or hypoplasia of the olfactory bulbs and tracts. Hypogonadism is due to deficiency in gonadotropin-releasing hormone and probably results from a failure of embryonic migration of gonadotropin-releasing hormone-synthesizing neurons. In some patients other developmental anomalies can be present, which include renal agenesis, cleft lip and/or palate, selective tooth agenesis, and bimanual synkinesis. In some cases anosmia may be absent or inconspicuous. Ref.9Defects in FGF8 are a cause of idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) [

MIM:146110]. IHH is defined as a deficiency of the pituitary secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone, which results in the impairment of pubertal maturation and of reproductive function. Ref.9

Sequence similarities: Belongs to the heparin-binding growth factors family.