Automated description from the Alliance of Genome Resources (Release 7.0.0)
Enables growth factor activity. Involved in positive regulation of ERK1 and ERK2 cascade; positive regulation of protein phosphorylation; and stem cell development. Acts upstream of or within several processes, including nervous system development; positive regulation of cell differentiation; and positive regulation of cell population proliferation. Located in extracellular space. Is expressed in several structures, including alimentary system; central nervous system; extraembryonic component; genitourinary system; and sensory organ. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in several diseases, including Parkinsonism; corneal neovascularization; diabetic neuropathy; gastric ulcer; and impotence. Orthologous to human FGF2 (fibroblast growth factor 2).