Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 19 is an atypical member of the fibroblast growth factor family of signaling molecules. FGF19, FGF21, and FGF23 comprise a phylogenetic subfamily with attributes that distinguish them from typical FGFs. The FGF19 subfamily has reduced heparin binding resulting from a disrupted beta-trefoil domain. Reduced heparin binding allows these FGFs to diffuse beyond their site of origin and act as endocrine hormones. This family of FGFs is regulated, at least in part, by nuclear hormone receptors. FGF19 expression is regulated by the farnesoid X receptor, a nuclear hormone receptor that is a key regulator of bile acid biosynthesis and transport. In line with its regulation by a bile acid receptor, FGF19 is involved in the regulation of bile acid biosynthesis and gallbladder filling.
Minireview: Roles of Fibroblast Growth Factors 19 and 21 in Metabolic Regulation and Chronic Diseases.
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Mol Endocrinol. 2015 Oct;29(10):1400-13.
Mini-review: endocrine actions of fibroblast growth factor 19.
Jones S.
Mol Pharm. 2008 Jan-Feb;5(1):42-8
