Basic-fibroblast growth factor (b-FGF)--its biological role in physiologic and pathologic conditions.

Basic-Fibroblast Growth Factor (b-FGF) is a multifunctional polypeptide that promotes growth and differentiation of a broad spectrum of cell types, including dermal fibroblasts, keratinocytes, endothelial cells and melanocytes. Due to its powerful mitogenic and angiogenic abilities it can influence the tissue remodeling, wound healing, neovascularization and promote tumor growth and metastases. b-FGF is also involved in some inflammatory skin diseases, but its biological role both in physiologic and pathologic conditions is not entirely recognized yet.