Platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) family proteins exist as several disulphide-bonded, dimeric isoforms that bind in a specific pattern to two closely related receptor tyrosine kinases, PDGF receptor α (PDGFRα) and PDGF receptor β (PDGFRβ). PDGFRα homodimers bind all PDGF isoforms except those containing PDGF D. Evidence suggests that PDGF may function as a neurotrophic factor. The fact that PDGF type A receptors are expressed in oligodendrocyte progenitor cells whereas PDGF type B receptors are expressed on neurons suggests that the different isoforms of PDGF may regulate growth and differentiation of different cell types in the developing central nervous system by paracrine and autocrine routes.
