Fibroblast Growth Factors: Modulators of Cellular Stress

Dear Colleagues, 

Fibroblast Growth Factors (FGFs) comprise a family of ubiquitous and evolutionarily-conserved cytokines that act as ligands for Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptors (FGFRs).  FGFRs are cell-surface tyrosine kinases that regulate a wide range of cell fate decisions during development and in response to environmental stimuli including those that induce cellular stress. It is well documented that the expression, availability, and signaling of the prototypic FGF ligands (acidic and basic FGF) are sensitive to hypoxia and inflammation.  Furthermore, evidence is mounting that inappropriate FGF activity is an underlying contributor to the etiology of many chronic diseases linked to cellular stress including diabetes, neuropsychiatric disorders, and cancer. However, knowledge of the relationship between cellular stress and the dynamics of FGF ligand expression and functionality throughout the family is still lacking.  Moreover, the impact of stress-induced by dietary lipids or exposure to chemotoxic agents on FGF:FGFR signaling systems requires further exploration.  In order to address these gaps in the literature, this special issue will focus on the role that FGF ligands have in the modulation of cellular stress responses caused by a variety of sources, including those that result from nutritional and chemical exposures.  Submission of original research and review articles providing insight into the role that FGF:FGFR signaling has on cellular stress responses in cell culture and animal models are welcome. This special edition will highlight novel research that can eventually be used as a basis for the development of clinical applications, combating a plethora of debilitating diseases and disorders that can translate into clinical applications including an understanding of how FGF dynamics can contribute to risk factors associated with many chronic diseases.

Dr. Deena J. Small
Guest Editor

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• Cellular Stress
• Chemical Toxicity
• Fibroblast Growth Factors
• Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptors
• Hypoxia
• Inflammation
• Reactive Oxygen Species