Growth factors and receptors; players in cellular communication, development, and repair

Achondroplasia is the most common form of disproportionate short stature, a genetic condition occurring in approximately 1 in 25,000 live births caused by a specific mutation in the FGFR3 gene on chromosome 4. This mutation results in an overactive fibroblast growth factor receptor, which abnormally inhibits the transition of cartilage to bone in the growth plates, primarily affecting the long bones of the arms and legs. While the condition is inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion, roughly