About this Research Topic
Fibroblast growth factor 10 is a secreted growth factor acting via Fibroblast growth factor receptor 2b. Fgf10 is usually secreted by mesenchymal cells and displays a short range of action on adjacent epithelial cells as the result of its strong interaction with heparin sulfate. This growth factor enhances cumulus cell expansion, oocyte maturation, and subsequent embryo development. This growth factor is crucial for organogenesis of many ramified organs both endoderm-derived (lung, pancreas, cecum, prostate, kidney,..) and ectoderm-derived (teeth, mammary gland, limbs, inner ear,..). Fgf10 is also required for brain development.
In addition to these embryonic activities Fgf10 is also critical in the adult mouse for repair after injury. Fgf10 has also been associated with breast cancer in humans and mutations in this gene and/or its receptor are associated with multiple human diseases such as Aplasia of the Lacrimal and Salivary gland syndrome (ALSG) as well as Lacrimal-Auriculo-dental digital syndrome (LADD). Fgf10 mutations are also associated with the development of Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in humans. In the future recombinant Fgf10 could be instrumental to treat diseases associated with organ failure or/and involving defective wound healing.
With this Research Topic, we hope to create a collection of articles addressing the importance of FGF10, in particular its role in development, homeostasis, disease and repair. The following article types will be considered: Original Research and Reviews.
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