PDGFRβ triggered by bFGF promotes the proliferation and migration of endothelial progenitor cells via p-ERK signalling

We have examined the effects of bFGF (basic fibroblast growth factor) on p-ERK (phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase) through PDGFR beta (platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta) in the proliferation and migration of EPCs (endothelial progenitor cells). EPC migration was detected using the Transwell system. The expression of PDGFR beta mRNA and protein, total ERK and p-ERK proteins was respectively assessed by real-time PCR and Western blottings. bFGF promote the proliferation and migration of EPCs, the effects of bFGF being implemented by activating ERK signalling through the expression of PDGFR beta, whereas an anti-bFGF antibody and inhibitor of PDGF (platelet-derived growth factor) receptor kinase (AG1296) could respectively decrease the expression of PDGFR beta mRNA and protein and p-ERK protein. Total ERK protein did not change under the same experimental conditions, and an inhibitor of p-ERK (PD98059) inhibited the proliferation and migration of EPCs. The findings strongly suggest that a PDGFR beta/p-ERK signalling pathway triggered by bFGF plays an important role in the proliferation and migration of EPCs.