Fibroblast growth factor 21 and its influence on metabolic processes in the human body

Abstract

Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 (FGF21) regulates mainly glucose and lipid metabolism. It improves insulin sensitivity, increases high-density lipoprotein, decreases serum triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, blood glucose level and body weight. However, high circulating FGF21 levels have been found in the case of the type 2 diabetes, chronic heart disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, obesity and other. These findings may indicate the FGF21 resistance or compensatory response to the metabolic stress. Thus, serum FGF21 can be seen as a potential marker of these metabolic disorders. The purpose of this review has been to summarize the scientific date of influence FGF21 on the development of the diseases which associated with metabolic disorders.