Fibroblast growth factor 21
Function
Stimulates glucose uptake in differentiated adipocytes via the induction of glucose transporter SLC2A1/GLUT1 expression (but not SLC2A4/GLUT4 expression). Activity probably requires the presence of KLB. Regulates systemic glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity.
Sequence Similarities
Belongs to the heparin-binding growth factors family.
Tissue Specificity
Most abundantly expressed in the liver, also expressed in the thymus at lower levels (PubMed:10858549, PubMed:30389664). Expressed in skeletal muscle (at protein level). Secreted in plasma (at protein level) (PubMed:30605666).
Cellular localization
- Secreted
Alternative names
Fibroblast growth factor 21, FGF-21, Fgf21