Fibroblast Growth Factor May Regulate Movement

A study has found that fibroblast growth factor 14 (FGF14), which belongs to a distinct subclass of FGFs expressed in the developing and adult central nervous system, does not act like a growth factor. Instead, it appears to have a functional role in the transmission of signals within the nervous system and may help regulate walking and movement. The research was reported in the July 3, 2002, issue of Neuron.

Investigators at the Washington University School of Medicine (St. Louis, MO, USA) developed a strain of mice containing a mutant gene for FGF14. The mutant gene coded for a modified FGF14 that contained a beta-galactosidase residue, which rendered the molecule nonfunctional.

Mice born with this mutation developed coordination problems and abnormal posture. Compared with normal mice they walked sluggishly and shuffled, and they had reduced muscle strength. They also were less sensitive to stimulants such as cocaine and amphetamines and were more prone to drug-induced seizures. When the researchers looked at brain tissue removed from the mutant mice for the location of beta-galactosidase, they found that the modified version of FGF14 was transported throughout the basal ganglia and cerebellum, areas in the brain related to motor function. Thus, FGF14 may be linked to movement disorders, such as Parkinson's and Huntington's diseases.

"We believe we have found a new signaling pathway in the brain,” said study leader Dr. David M. Ornitz, professor of molecular biology and pharmacology at Washington University. "Once we learn what FGF14 does at the molecular level, I believe we may uncover a new mechanism for regulating nerve cell function. It is pretty clear now that FGF14 is not a growth factor.”



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