Mitogenic response of human carcinoma cells to the liver-derived hormone FGF21

Background and aims: Epidemiologically, type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) is associated with various cancer types. The factors linking these diseases are not understood yet. Since plasma FGF21 levels are increased in metabolic diseases, we asked whether FGF21 promotes tumor cell proliferation. Methods: Breast adenocarcinoma- (MCF7), prostate adenocarcinoma- (PC3), hepatocellular carcinoma- (HepG2) and, for control, non-transformed breast epithelial (MCF10a) cells were treated with recombinant human FGF21 (rhFGF21). Cell viability/cell number, DNA content, cellular protein and RNA were analyzed. Results: Treatment o…