FGF7 and autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease: FGF7 acts as an autocrine or paracrine growth factor by activating the FGFR2b receptor on epithelial cell membranes.[15, 16] FGF7 plays a role in morphogenesis (e.g., kidney development), angiogenesis, tissue repair, and tumorigenesis.[9, 17–19] FGF7 expression is also upregulated in kidney tissues from patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease.[20] Several reports demonstrate the phosphatonin-like activity of FGF7 both in vitro and in vivo.