Plays an important role in the regulation of embryonic development, cell proliferation, and cell differentiation. Required for normal ear development. Interacts with FGFR1 and FGFR2. Affinity between fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) and their receptors is increased by heparan sulfate glycosaminoglycans that function as coreceptors. The disease is caused by variants affecting the gene represented in this entry. Belongs to the heparin-binding growth factors family.