Plays an important role in the regulation of cell proliferation, cell differentiation, angiogenesis and myogenesis, and is required for normal muscle regeneration. Interacts with FGFR1, FGFR2 and FGFR4. Affinity between fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) and their receptors is increased by heparan sulfate glycosaminoglycans that function as coreceptors. Leukemia cell lines with platelet/ megakaryocytic differentiation potential. Belongs to the heparin-binding growth factors family.