Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF) is a significant growth factor involved in various cellular processes, including proliferation, differentiation, and migration. PDGF-AA is one of the isoforms of PDGF, consisting of two identical A subunits. This article delves into the background of PDGF-AA, particularly focusing on its recombinant form derived from rats.
PDGF-AA is a dimeric protein composed of two A subunits linked by disulfide bonds. It primarily signals through the PDGFRα receptor, inducing mesenchymal cell growth, morphogenesis, and migration . PDGF-AA plays a crucial role in the development of several cell types and tissues, including fibroblasts, glial cells, and vascular smooth muscle cells .
Recombinant PDGF-AA is produced using recombinant DNA technology, where the gene encoding the PDGF-AA protein is inserted into a host organism, typically E. coli, to produce the protein in large quantities. This recombinant form is optimized for use in various research applications, including cell culture, differentiation studies, and functional assays .
Recombinant PDGF-AA is widely used in scientific research due to its potent mitogenic effects on cells of mesenchymal origin. Some of its key applications include:
The biological activity of recombinant PDGF-AA is typically measured using cell proliferation assays. For instance, it has been shown to stimulate the proliferation of NR6R-3T3 mouse fibroblast cells in a dose-dependent manner . The effective dose (ED50) for this effect ranges from 50 to 200 ng/mL .
PDGF-AA has been implicated in various pathological conditions, including atherosclerosis, glomerulonephritis, and cancer. Dysregulation of PDGF signaling can lead to abnormal cell growth and tissue development . Recombinant PDGF-AA is also used in therapeutic applications, such as promoting wound healing and tissue regeneration .