Fibroblast growth factor-5 human has been used for the induction of differentiation in E14Tg2a and 46C parental mouse ES (embryonic stem) cell lines, Fgf4^+/- (clone 342) ,Fgf4^-/- (clone FD6) ES cells and Erk2^+/- ES cells and Erk2^-/- ES cell lines.

FGF5 (fibroblast growth factor 5) regulates hair growth cycle, and its inactivation in mice leads to angora phenotype. In the peripheral nervous system, it acts as a muscle-derived trophic factor for motor neurons. In vivo it demonstrates neurotrophic activity, and in vitro it influences astroglial characteristics. It functions as an oncogene in glioblastoma due to its autocrine and paracrine functions. Its expression is elevated in human astrocytic brain tumours, which is linked to increased malignancy. It causes the regression of hair follicles, and thus, controls the length of hair in humans. It might have potential as a therapeutic target to control the growth of eyelashes.

Lyophilized from a 0.2 μm filtered solution in 10mM MOPS, 50 mM NaSO₄, 0.5 mM EDTA, 0.5 mM DTT and 5% trehalose, pH 7.0 containing 50 μg BSA per 1 μg cytokine.

The biological activity is tested in culture with quiescent NR6R-3T3 fibroblasts.