Description
Fibroblast Growth Factor-21 (FGF-21) is a metabolic cytokine belonging to the heparin-binding FGF family. Along with FGF-19/15 and FGF-23, FGF-21 is categorized as a member of the atypical FGF subfamily, as it must be complexed to the Klotho co-receptor in order to bind to the FGF receptors and activate the downstream signaling pathway. In vivo FGF-21 is expressed in liver, pancreas, adipose tissue, and skeletal muscle, and it plays a central role in the energy metabolism. The expression of FGF-21 is stimulated by free fatty acids and insulin resistant states and is correlated with whole-body insulin resistance. FGF-21 activates glucose uptake in adipocytes and increases insulin sensitivity, implicating it as a novel target with potential anti-diabetic properties.