PDGFC
Description
The PDGFC (platelet derived growth factor C) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 4.
PDGF-C, also known as PDGF-C, is a 345-amino acid protein encoded by the PDGFC gene in humans. It belongs to the platelet-derived growth factor family, which is crucial for connective tissue growth, survival, and function. PDGFs are composed of disulfide-linked dimers involving two polypeptide chains, PDGF-A and PDGF-B. PDGF-C has a unique two-domain structure and expression pattern, distinct from PDGF-A and PDGF-B. It is thought to be synthesized and secreted as a latent growth factor, requiring proteolytic removal of the N-terminal CUB domain for receptor binding and activation. PDGF-C forms homodimers and is a key component of the PDGFR-α signaling pathway. It plays a specific role in palatogenesis and the morphogenesis of the integumentary tissue. Mouse knockout studies indicate that PDGF-C and PDGF-A may function as principal ligands for PDGFR-α. PDGF-C is essential for palatogenesis.
PDGF-C is a growth factor that plays an essential role in the regulation of embryonic development, including cell proliferation, migration, survival, and chemotaxis. It acts as a potent mitogen and chemoattractant for cells of mesenchymal origin. PDGF-C is crucial for normal skeletal formation during embryonic development, particularly for the craniofacial skeleton and palate. It is also essential for normal skin morphogenesis. PDGF-C plays a significant role in wound healing, contributing to the stages of inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. Additionally, it is involved in angiogenesis and blood vessel development, as well as fibrotic processes, where it promotes the transformation of interstitial fibroblasts into myofibroblasts and collagen deposition. The CUB domain of PDGF-C exhibits mitogenic activity in coronary artery smooth muscle cells, suggesting a function beyond maintaining the latency of the PDGF domain. PDGF-C appears to have additional functions within the nucleus.
PDGFC is also known as FALLOTEIN, SCDGF.
