The keratinocyte growth factor (KGF), also known as fibroblast growth factor 7 (FGF-7), is a growth factor present in the epithelialization-phase of wound healing. In this phase, keratinocytes are covering the wound, forming the epithelium. Cells reported to express KGF are fibroblasts, embryonic mesenchymal cells, and smooth muscle cells.
KGF is a small signaling molecule that binds to fibroblast growth factor receptor 2b (FGFR2b). KGF has been suggested to be a paracrine effector for a number of different epithelial cell types. In addition to its ability to induce cell proliferation, it may also promote epithelial differentiation. Cytokines such as IL-1(α and β) and IL-6 not only activate local connective tissue cells, resulting in foreign body clearance and tissue remodeling, but also stimulate the production of fibroblast KGF which contributes to re-epithelialization and wound closure.