Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF-21) is a hepatokine primarily produced by the liver, with additional expression in adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and the pancreas. It plays a crucial role in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism by enhancing insulin sensitivity, promoting fatty acid oxidation, and modulating energy expenditure. FGF-21 exerts its effects through interactions with the β-klotho co-receptor and FGF receptors, influencing various metabolic processes. Elevated circulating levels of FGF-21 have been observed in conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and chronic kidney disease (CKD), suggesting its involvement in metabolic dysregulation.
In clinical and research settings, FGF-21 serves as a valuable biomarker for assessing metabolic disturbances and monitoring disease progression. Its elevated levels in metabolic disorders may indicate a compensatory response to insulin resistance or impaired metabolic function. Moreover, FGF-21 has been identified as a potential predictor of renal dysfunction, with higher serum concentrations associated with impaired glomerular filtration rate and albuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, FGF-21 has shown promise in evaluating mitochondrial diseases, where its serum levels correlate with disease severity and may aid in diagnosis. Thus, measuring FGF-21 levels can provide insights into metabolic and renal health, guiding therapeutic interventions and enhancing our understanding of disease mechanisms.
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