PDGFRα in Liver Pathophysiology: Emerging Roles in Development, Regeneration, Fibrosis, and Cancer

Platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFR alpha) is an isoform of the PDGFR family of tyrosine kinase receptors involved in cell proliferation, survival, differentiation, and growth. In this review, we highlight the role of PDGFR alpha and the current evidence of its expression and activities in liver development, regeneration, and pathology-including fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Studies elucidating PDGFR alpha signaling in processes ranging from profibrotic signaling, angiogenesis, and oxidative stress to epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition point toward PDGFR alpha as a potential therapeutic target in various hepatic pathologies, including hepatic fibrosis and liver cancer. Furthermore, PDGFR alpha localization and modulation during liver development and regeneration may lend insight into its potential roles in various pathologic states. We will also briefly discuss some of the current targeted treatments for PDGFR alpha, including multireceptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors and PDGFR alpha-specific inhibitors.