Recombinant Human FGF-2/FGF basic/FGFb Protein

Fibroblast growth factors (FGF) are a family of heparin-binding secreted proteins that stimulate cell proliferation and differentiation in a wide variety of tissues. FGFs play important roles in diverse biological functions both in vivo and in vitro; including mitogenesis; cellular migration; differentiation; angiogenesis; and wound healing. Human embryonic stem cell (hESC) cultures require FGF basic (also known as FGF-2 or bFGF) in cell culture media to remain in an undifferentiated and pluripotent state. Thermostable FGF basic was engineered for enhanced stability in culture media; without modification of its biological function. FGF basic is a required component of stem cell culture media for maintaining cells in an undifferentiated state. Because FGF basic is unstable; daily media changes are needed. The thermostable FGF basic that supports a 2-day media change schedule; so no media changes are required over a weekend. This thermostable FGF basic was more stable than FGF basic in biochemical studies; and maintained cell growth; pluripotency and differentiation potential with a 2-day feeding schedule.