FGF18 is a novel growth factor first reported
in 1998. Current evidence suggests that FGF18 may play
a prominent role in chondrogenesis and osteogenesis
during skeletal development and growth. However, its
function extends to many other biological processes.
Although there remains much to be discovered and
investigated on the functions and mechanisms of FGF18,
it may play a role as a useful therapeutic target for
various applications. The following review summarizes
the current knowledge on FGF18 with special emphasis
on its skeletal functions and highlights its potential areas
for future research