Platelet-derived growth factor receptor

Platelet-derived growth factor receptor

The Platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) is a type of protein found on the surface of certain cells in the body. It is a member of the tyrosine kinase family of growth factor receptors. Pronounced as "P-D-G-F-R", the term is derived from the English words "platelet", "derived", "growth factor", and "receptor".

Function

PDGFR plays a crucial role in cell growth, cell division, and the development of blood vessels. It does this by binding to its ligand, the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), which triggers a series of events within the cell that ultimately lead to these outcomes.

Structure

PDGFR is a transmembrane receptor, meaning it spans the entire width of the cell membrane. It consists of an extracellular ligand-binding region, a transmembrane region, and an intracellular region that contains the tyrosine kinase domain.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the PDGFR gene can lead to a variety of medical conditions, including certain types of cancer. For example, overexpression of PDGFR has been observed in glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer. In addition, certain drugs that inhibit PDGFR have been developed for the treatment of cancer and other diseases.

Related terms

• Platelet-derived growth factor: The ligand that binds to PDGFR and triggers its activity.
• Tyrosine kinase: A type of enzyme that PDGFR belongs to.
• Transmembrane receptor: A type of protein that spans the entire width of the cell membrane, such as PDGFR.

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