Direct role of PDGF-BB in lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic metastasis

Genetic instability of tumor cells often leads to amplified expression of multiple growth factors that contribute to angiogenesis and tumor growth. Members of the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) family are frequently utilized growth factors by many tumors to support their growth. PDGFs have previously been found to induce tumor growth by directly stimulating cell growth of certain types of tumors. We have recently demonstrated that PDGFs are potent angiogenic factors. Particularly, the angiogenic activity of PDGFs can be potentiated in the presence of other angiogenic factors. In addition to stimulation of blood angiogenesis, we have recently found that PDGFs can directly stimulate lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic metastasis. In this review, multiple roles of PDGFs in control of tumor growth and metastasis are discussed.