PDGFCC

PDGF-C, or PDGF-CC, is a member of the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) family of signaling proteins that regulate cell growth, survival, and migration in various tissues. In humans, the PDGFC gene encodes the PDGF-C precursor. Expression of PDGFC is observed in multiple tissues during development and in certain adult organs, consistent with roles in development, tissue remodeling, and repair.

PDGF-C is synthesized as a latent, disulfide-bonded dimer that contains an N-terminal CUB domain followed by the C-terminal PDGF growth factor domain. The CUB domain blocks receptor binding and activity, so activation requires proteolytic processing to remove the inhibitory domain and reveal the PDGF growth factor. Once activated, PDGF-C can engage PDGF receptors to initiate intracellular signaling.

PDGF-C signals primarily through the PDGF receptor-α (PDGFR-α). In some cellular contexts, it may contribute to signaling through PDGFR-αβ heterodimers or cooperate with other PDGFs. Receptor activation triggers tyrosine phosphorylation and downstream pathways, including the MAPK/ERK, PI3K/Akt, and PLCγ cascades, leading to cellular responses such as proliferation, migration, and survival.

Physiologically, PDGF-C contributes to mesenchymal cell proliferation, angiogenesis, vascular stabilization, and tissue remodeling during development and in wound healing. It has also been implicated in pathological processes such as fibrosis and tumor progression, where altered PDGF-C signaling can influence fibroblast activity and neovascularization.

Overall, PDGF-C is a latent growth factor that becomes active through proteolytic processing, signals mainly via PDGFR-α, and participates in developmental and reparative processes as well as certain disease states.