Platelet Derived Growth Factors (PDGFs) are a family of proteins that play a crucial role in regulating cell growth, proliferation, and angiogenesis. Initially discovered in platelets, these growth factors are now known to be produced by a variety of cell types, including smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts, and certain tumor cells. PDGFs exert their effects by binding to specific cell surface receptors known as PDGF receptors (PDGFRs), which trigger a cascade of intracellular signaling pathways.
