Elevated FGF21 leads to attenuated postnatal linear growth in preterm infants through gh resistance in chondrocytes

Abstract

Objective: The objective of the studywasto assess the role of FGF21 in growth regulation inhumans using postnatal growth failure of very preterm infants as a model. Design: FGF21 levels were measured serially in very preterm infants, and their linear growth evaluated from birth to term-equivalent age. Primary chondrocytes obtained from pediatric donors were used to test whether FGF21 can directly interfere with GH signaling. Context: The hormone fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a key metabolic regulator in the adaptation to fasting. In food-restricted mice, inhibition of skeletal growth is mediated by the antagonistic effect of FGF21 on GH action in the liver and growth plate. Results: Anegative association (β-.415, P