FGF2, partial (Active) binds fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFR1–4) and integrins (ITGAV:ITGB3), activating downstream pathways like RAS/MAPK . Functional assays demonstrate:
Mitogenic Activity: Induces 3T3 fibroblast proliferation with ED50 <5 ng/ml .
Angiogenesis: Promotes endothelial cell migration and blood vessel formation .
Collagen Modulation: Suppresses collagen type I/III mRNA and protein expression in smooth muscle cells .
A meta-analysis of four RCTs showed 0.3% rhFGF-2 significantly improved bone fill (BF%) in periodontal defects compared to controls :
Parameter | Intervention Group | Control Group | Effect Size (95% CI) |
---|---|---|---|
BF% | 22.37% higher | Baseline | MD = 22.37 (13.47–31.27) |
Linear Bone Gain | 1.13 mm | Baseline | MD = 1.13 (0.78–1.79) |
Higher doses (0.4%) showed non-significant trends, suggesting optimal efficacy at 0.3% .
FGF2-impregnated collagen/gelatin sponges (CGS) demonstrated:
Chronic Ulcers: 94% (16/17) of patients showed improved healing .
Surgical Defects: Reduced need for autologous grafts in reconstructive surgery .
FGF2’s instability in aqueous solutions limits clinical utility. Strategies include:
Sustained-Release Systems: CGS matrices enable gradual FGF2 release over 10 days .
Lyophilization: Maintains activity post-reconstitution at 0.1 mg/ml in sterile buffers .
High-yield expression (up to 185.66 mg/kg in rice grains) and simplified purification protocols achieve 4.49% recovery . Functional equivalence to commercial FGF2 is validated via NIH/3T3 proliferation assays .