aFGF Bovine
Description
Product Specs
Belonging to the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family, acidic fibroblast growth factor exhibits broad mitogenic and cell survival activities. It is engaged in a range of biological processes, including but not limited to, embryonic development, cell growth, morphogenesis, tissue repair, and tumor growth and invasion. Functioning as a modifier of endothelial cell migration and proliferation, this protein also acts as an angiogenic factor. Its mitogenic activity on various mesoderm- and neuroectoderm-derived cells in vitro suggests its involvement in organogenesis. Three alternatively spliced variants encoding different isoforms are known. The binding growth factors exhibit angiogenic properties in vivo and act as potent mitogens for various cell types in vitro. Notably, there are distinctions in the tissue distribution and concentration of these two growth factors.
At a concentration of 10-25ng/ml, FGF stimulates the growth of bovine capillary endothelial cells by a factor of 3-5 compared to 5% calf serum.
Product Science Overview
Fibroblast Growth Factors (FGFs) are a family of polypeptide growth factors involved in various biological processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, and tissue repair. Among the FGFs, Fibroblast Growth Factor Acidic Bovine (FGF-1), also known as acidic fibroblast growth factor, is a significant member due to its role in cellular activities and therapeutic potential.
FGF-1 is a protein that is primarily found in bovine brain tissue. It exists in two forms: a 17 kDa polypeptide and a 20 kDa polypeptide. The 17 kDa form is derived from the 20 kDa form through restricted proteolysis . The protein is characterized by its ability to bind to heparin, which stabilizes it and enhances its biological activity.
FGF-1 plays a crucial role in various cellular processes:
- Cell Proliferation and Differentiation: FGF-1 is known to stimulate the proliferation and differentiation of a wide range of cells, including fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and neurons .
- Wound Healing: It has been shown to promote wound healing by enhancing the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) and the proliferation of fibroblasts .
- Neuroprotection: FGF-1 has neuroprotective properties and is involved in the development and repair of the nervous system .
FGF-1 exerts its effects by binding to specific cell surface receptors known as fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs). This binding activates a cascade of intracellular signaling pathways, including the MAPK/ERK pathway, which leads to the transcription of genes involved in cell growth and differentiation .
Due to its diverse biological functions, FGF-1 has been extensively studied for its potential therapeutic applications:
- Tissue Engineering: FGF-1 is used in tissue engineering to promote the regeneration of damaged tissues, including skin, bone, and cartilage .
- Wound Healing: Recombinant FGF-1 is applied topically to enhance wound healing in clinical settings .
- Neurodegenerative Diseases: Research is ongoing to explore the potential of FGF-1 in treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease .
