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FGFR4 gene
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Gene

FGFR4 gene

The FGFR4 gene provides instructions for a protein involved in muscle development, bone maturation, and cell signaling, with certain variations linked to cancer progression.

Normal Function

The FGFR4 gene provides instructions for making the fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 protein. This protein interacts with growth factors to transmit signals from outside the cell to the nucleus, helping the cell adjust to environmental changes by dividing, moving, or maturing. Studies indicate that FGFR4 is involved in muscle development, the maturation of skull bone cells, and the maintenance of foveal cones in the retina.

Health Conditions Related to Genetic Changes

Cancers

A common variation (polymorphism) in the FGFR4 gene, where glycine is replaced by arginine at position 388, is associated with accelerated disease progression in several types of cancer, including:

  • Breast cancer
  • Colon cancer
  • Head and neck cancer
  • Prostate cancer

While this variation produces no ill effects in healthy individuals, abnormal activation and increased activity of the FGFR4 gene are also implicated in the development of pituitary tumors and gastric, pancreatic, and ovarian cancers.

Other Names for This Gene

  • CD334
  • JTK2 Gene
  • protein-tyrosine kinase
  • TKF Gene
  • tyrosylprotein kinase

Frequently Asked Questions

The G388R change in FGFR4 does not cause disease by itself, but studies have linked it to faster tumor growth and poorer outcomes in several cancers such as breast, colon, head and neck, and prostate. If you carry this variant, your oncologist may monitor you more closely for aggressive disease and may consider more intensive treatment or inclusion in clinical trials that target FGFR signaling.
Testing for FGFR4 polymorphisms is not part of standard hereditary cancer panels yet. However, if you have a strong family history of cancers associated with FGFR4 activation, discuss with a genetic counselor whether a research‑based test or a specialized panel that includes FGFR4 might be appropriate.
Some newer drugs inhibit FGFR family members, but most FGFR4 inhibitors are still in clinical trials. In cancers where FGFR4 is overactive, adding an FGFR inhibitor could theoretically improve response, but this is not yet routine. Your treatment team will weigh the evidence and consider clinical trial options if available.
There is no proven diet that directly modulates FGFR4. General cancer‑preventive measures—maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, limiting processed foods, and avoiding tobacco—are recommended. Some studies suggest that certain phytochemicals may influence growth factor signaling, but more research is needed before specific recommendations can be made.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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