Biol. Pharm. Bull. 30(10) 1819—1825 (2007)

In the development of multicellular organisms, various signaling pathways are activated in a highly coordinated manner to ensure proper morphogenesis. Secreted signaling molecules such as fibroblast growth factors (Fgfs), bone morphogenic proteins (Bmps), Wnts, and Hedgehogs play crucial roles in development by influencing the intracellular signaling events of their neighbors from a distance. Fgfs are polypeptide growth factors with diverse biological activities. Most Fgfs mediate their biological responses by binding to and activating cell surface tyrosine kinase Fgf receptors (Fgfrs). The Fgf signalling system is required in multiple developmental processes including differentiation, cell proliferation, and migration. In this paper, I provide a succinct review of the Fgf gene families in humans, mice, and zebrafish and their evolutionary processes and roles in development, metabolism, and disease.