Fibroblast Growth Factor 7 (FGF7), also known as keratinocyte growth factor (KGF), is a paracrine signaling protein primarily produced by mesenchymal cells. It plays a crucial role in epithelial cell proliferation, differentiation, and tissue repair, particularly in the skin, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. FGF7 binds to the FGFR2-IIIb receptor, activating downstream signaling pathways like MAPK and PI3K-Akt, which regulate wound healing, organ development, and homeostasis. Dysregulation of FGF7 is linked to pathological conditions, including cancer progression, fibrosis, and chronic inflammatory diseases.
FGF7 antibodies are essential tools for studying its expression, localization, and function in both normal and diseased tissues. These antibodies enable detection of FGF7 in immunoassays (e.g., ELISA, Western blot), immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry. Monoclonal antibodies, known for high specificity, are often used in therapeutic research to block FGF7-FGFR2 interactions, potentially inhibiting tumor growth or fibrosis. Polyclonal antibodies, with broader epitope recognition, are valuable for detecting FGF7 in diverse experimental setups.
Research using FGF7 antibodies has highlighted its dual role: promoting tissue regeneration in injury models while driving oncogenic processes in cancers like breast or pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Therapeutic strategies targeting FGF7 signaling are under exploration, particularly in cancers with FGFR2-IIIb overexpression. Additionally, FGF7 antibody-based diagnostics may aid in identifying biomarkers for disease progression or treatment response. Overall, FGF7 antibodies remain pivotal in unraveling the protein's biological complexity and translational potential.