PDGF

PDGF (Platelet Derived Growth Factor) s a dimeric glycoprotein growth factor. It is coded by four genes (PDGF-A, PDGF-B, PDGF-C and PDGF-D), and produces five isoforms (homodimers and heterodimer AB). The individual isoforms differ in their affinity to the receptors, the α receptor does not bind the DD isoform, the β receptor binds only molecules containing protein B or D. PDGF is produced in megakaryocytes and subsequently stored in platelets, but it is also produced by a number of other cells. Receptors for PDGF (PDGFR) are mainly on fibroblast, smooth muscle cells and glial cells; PDGF significantly stimulates the proliferation of mesenchymal cells origin. PDGF is highly involved in angiogenesis, which plays an essential role in wound healing as well as tumor angiogenesis. It is also important in embryogenesis, PDGF or PDGFR mutations are generally lethal.

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