FGF23: Is It Another Biomarker for Phosphate-Calcium Metabolism?

Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is a protein produced by mature osteoblasts involved in mineral homeostasis by binding to its receptor complex FGFR/Klotho located mainly in the kidneys. Although this protein participates in numerous biological processes, increase in the levels of FGF23 is responsible for many pathologies, such as X-linked hypophosphataemia (XLH), chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular disease or even mortality. For this reason, both FGF23 and its receptors have become elements of interest for the development of treatments. However, FGF23 can be altered for many other reasons, such as inflammatory processes, iron, hypoxia, heart failure or erythropoietin, that negatively affect mortality. This article will review the role of FGF23 in phosphate homeostasis, its relationship to mortality, fractures and chronic renal failure, and how the levels of this factor can be reduced.