Lead Clinical Compound (FGF-1)

ibroblast Growth Factor 1 (FGF-1) is a protein that is encoded by the FGF1 gene. 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, and cellular regeneration. This protein also functions as a modifier of endothelial cell migration and proliferation, as well as an angiogenic factor.

In humans, 22 members of the FGF family have been identified, all of which are structurally related signaling molecules. FGF-1 is the lead development candidate for internal research. FGF-1 is also known as acidic fibroblast growth factor and FGF-2 is also known as basic fibroblast growth factor. FGFs have been referred to as pluripotent growth factors and as “promiscuous” growth factors due to their multiple actions on multiple cell types. One important function of FGF-1 and FGF-2 is the promotion of endothelial cell proliferation and the physical organization of endothelial cells into tube-like structures. They thus promote angiogenesis from the pre-existing vasculature. As well as stimulating blood vessel growth, FGFs are important players in wound healing. FGF-1 and FGF-2 stimulate angiogenesis and the proliferation of fibroblasts that give rise to granulation tissue, which fills up a wound space/cavity early in the wound healing process.