Icariin from Traditional Chinese Medicine for FGFR3 Modulation in Achondroplasia

Icariin, a prenylated flavonol from Epimedium species, demonstrates dual action on FGFR3 signaling through direct receptor antagonism and downstream MAPK pathway modulation. Chinese studies show icariin promotes chondrocyte proliferation via ERK1/2 activation while simultaneously reducing STAT1 phosphorylation, potentially counteracting the growth-inhibiting effects of mutant FGFR3 in achondroplasia.