Platelet-derived growth factor

Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF) is a protein that is encoded by the PDGF gene in humans. It is a potent mitogen for cells of mesenchymal origin, including fibroblasts, smooth muscle cells, and glial cells.

Pronunciation

The pronunciation of Platelet-Derived Growth Factor is /ˈpleɪtlɪt dɪˈraɪvd ˈgroʊθ ˈfæktər/.

Etymology

The term "Platelet-Derived Growth Factor" is derived from its discovery in the platelets of the blood, where it was found to be a major component responsible for the healing and growth of tissues.

Function

PDGF plays a significant role in blood vessel formation (angiogenesis), the growth of blood vessels from already-existing blood vessel tissue. Uncontrolled angiogenesis is a characteristic of cancer.

Related Terms

• Angiogenesis
• Mitogen
• Fibroblast
• Smooth muscle cell
• Glial cell
• Protein
• Gene
• Platelet

See Also

• Growth factor
• Cell proliferation
• Cell migration

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Platelet-derived growth factor
• Wikipedia's article - Platelet-derived growth factor

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