Description
FGF-8b, also known as Fibroblast growth factor 8 isoform B, is a member of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family that plays a central role during prenatal development, postnatal growth and regeneration of a variety of tissues, by promoting cellular proliferation and differentiation. There are 4 known alternate spliced forms of FGF-8; FGF-8a, FGF-8b, FGF-8e and FGF-8f. FGF-8 is widely expressed during embryogenesis, and mediates epithelial-mesenchymal transitions. It encodes a key signaling factor, and its precise regulation is essential for embryo patterning. FGF-8b shows the strongest receptor affinity and oncogenic transforming capacity. FGF-8 signaling from the apical ectodermal ridge (AER), which borders the distal end of the limb bud, is necessary for forming normal limbs. FGF-8 is responsible for cell proliferation and survival, as well. The ability for FGF-8 to regulate cell proliferation has caused interest in its effects on tumors or squamous cell carcinoma. Recombinant human FGF-8b, fused to His-tag at C-terminus, was expressed in HEK293 cell and purified by using conventional chromatography techniques