Role of Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF) in Embryonic Stem Cell Differentiation

Published 2023-09-23

Scientists from the Max Plank Institute of Molecular Physiology published an article in Biology Open about the mechanism by which Embryonic Stem Cells at the level of gastrulation in the developing embryo determine their cell fate. Their research showcased the previously unknown role of Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF) in its proportion to Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP). Apparently the ratio of FGF to BMP determines at least to some degree the cell fate of the embryonic stem cell differentiation. Interestingly, this mechanism is only one of the determining factors. Apparently, there is still an inherent determination of embryonic stem cells in the differentiation process in addition to the FGF/BMP role.