Fibroblast growth factors (FGF) are a large family of polypeptides with ubiquitous roles in normal growth and development. There are 22 known members of this family all of which contain a signature FGF core region and a heparin binding region. The N-terminal and C-terminal of each FGF differ largely and form the basis of their different interactions and observed functional diversity. FGFs interact with fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFR) and heparan sulfate proteoglycans on cell surfaces to activate downstream signaling pathways leading to many physiological functions depending on the cell type and context. The FGF signaling system has crucial roles in development within invertebrates and vertebrates. The evolution of the FGF superfamily has not been well defined in previous studies. While functions of many members are known, this is a very complex family and there is still much to learn about the functions and specifically the evolution of this important super family of proteins. The aim of this study is to conduct a comprehensive evolutionary analysis of the FGF family in a wide array of genomes. Firstly, FGF family members will be identified in newly sequenced vertebrate genomes. This will be followed by phylogenetic analysis to determine relationships among FGF members with the sequences identified here and those previously identified. Finally, functional analysis will be done to identify regions of functional and evolutionary importance.
