PDGFRA : platelet derived growth factor receptor alpha

Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor Alpha (PDGFRA): A Molecular Orchestrator of Cellular Processes

Description

The Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor Alpha (PDGFRA) gene holds the blueprint for a crucial protein in our cells, aptly named PDGFRA. As a member of the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) family, PDGFRA orchestrates communication between the cell‘s exterior and interior. Its primary role is to bind to a specific protein called platelet-derived growth factor, triggering a cascade of intracellular signaling events.

Associated Diseases

Dysregulation of PDGFRA signaling is implicated in various diseases, most notably:

• Glioblastoma: A type of brain cancer characterized by uncontrolled growth and invasiveness, PDGFRA alterations are found in approximately 10% of cases.
• Gastrointestinal stromal tumors: Rare tumors that arise in the digestive tract, with PDGFRA mutations identified in up to 80% of cases.
• Hypereosinophilic syndrome: A rare disorder characterized by a high number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell. PDGFRA mutations are found in approximately 50% of cases.

Did you Know ?

PDGFRA alterations are present in approximately 3-5% of all human cancers, highlighting its significant role in tumorigenesis.