This invention relates to newly identified polynucleotides, polypeptides encoded
by such polynucleotides, the use of such polynucleotides and polypeptides, as well
as the production of such polynucleotides and polypeptides. More particularly,
the polypeptide of the present invention is a Keratinocyte Growth Factor, sometimes
hereinafter referred to as "KGF-2" also formerly known as Fibroblast Growth Factor
12 (FGF-12). This invention further relates to the therapeutic use of KGF-2 to
promote or accelerate wound healing. This invention also relates to novel mutant
forms of KGF-2 that show enhanced activity, increased stability, higher yield or
better solubility.