The FGF-binding protein

The fibroblast growth factor-binding protein FGF-BP

FGF-1 and FGF-2 play important roles in the stimulation of cell proliferation and in angiogenesis. However, upon their secretion they are tightly bound to the extracellular matrix and hence they are inactive. One mechanism of their release and bioactivation relies on the reversible interaction with an FGF-binding protein (FGF-BP). 

In our own studies, FGF-BP was identified as being relevant („rate-limiting“) in (tumor) cell proliferation in vitro as well as in tumor growth and angiogenesis in vivo. The intracellular mechanisms of action and the full palette of putative binding partners, however, is complex and only partially understood.

Mechanism for the action of FGF-BP in tumor cells
(Abuharbeid et al., Int. J. Biochem. Cell Biol., 2006)

This project aims at the detailed biochemical analysis of the intracellular functions of FGF-BP.