Role of Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 (FGF23) and αKlotho in Cancer

Together with fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) 19 and 21, FGF23 is an endocrine member of the family of FGFs. Mainly secreted by bone cells, FGF23 acts as a hormone on the kidney, stimulating phosphate excretion and suppressing formation of 1,25(OH)(2)D-3, active vitamin D. These effects are dependent on transmembrane protein alpha Klotho, which enhances the binding affinity of FGF23 for FGF receptors (FGFR). Locally produced FGF23 in other tissues including liver or heart exerts further paracrine effects without involvement of alpha Klotho. Soluble Klotho (sKL) is an endocrine factor that is cleaved off of transmembrane Klotho or generated by alternative splicing and regulates membrane channels, transporters, and intracellular signaling including insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and Wnt pathways, signaling cascades highly relevant for tumor progression. In mice, lack of FGF23 or alpha Klotho results in derangement of phosphate metabolism and a syndrome of rapid aging with abnormalities affecting most organs and a very short life span. Conversely, overexpression of anti-aging factor alpha Klotho results in a profound elongation of life span. Accumulating evidence suggests a major role of alpha Klotho as a tumor suppressor, at least in part by inhibiting IGF-1 and Wnt/beta-catenin signaling. Hence, in many malignancies, higher alpha Klotho expression or activity is associated with a more favorable outcome. Moreover, also FGF23 and phosphate have been revealed to be factors relevant in cancer. FGF23 is particularly significant for those forms of cancer primarily affecting bone (e.g., multiple myeloma) or characterized by bone metastasis. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the significance of FGF23 and alpha Klotho for tumor cell signaling, biology, and clinically relevant parameters in different forms of cancer.

Automated summary

FGF23 and α Klotho play crucial roles in the endocrine system and cell signaling, affecting phosphate metabolism, growth factor pathways, anti-aging mechanisms, and potential tumor suppression. Their significance extends to multiple cancers, especially those involving bone or bone metastasis, highlighting their importance as potential therapeutic targets.