Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 6, 2026

Screening and Identification of Small Peptides Targeting Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor2 using a Phage Display Peptide Library
Published on: September 30, 2019
Therapeutic targeting of platelet-derived growth factor receptors in solid tumors
1Karolinska Institutet, Department of Oncology-Pathology , SE-17177 Stockholm , Sweden.
Introduction:
Genetic aberrations that are associated with platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) activity are frequently found in glioblastomas (10 - 15%), dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (≤ 100%) and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (5%). Sequencing studies have also identified mutations at lower frequency in common cancer types. Preclinical evidence further suggests tumor stimulatory roles of PDGFRs expressed by tumor stroma cells and indicates a deleterious effect of stromal PDGFRs on intratumoral drug uptake.
Areas Covered:
This review summarizes the present understanding of PDGF signaling in solid tumors based on experimental studies and clinical findings. It also provides a discussion of selected ongoing efforts to develop novel cancer therapies involving PDGFR inhibition with tyrosine kinase inhibitors or PDGFR-targeting monoclonal antibodies.
Expert Opinion:
An increased molecular understanding of response and resistance mechanisms will be essential for therapeutic advances in PDGFR-directed cancer therapy. Further developments rely on clinical studies where systematic analyses of target status in malignant cells and in cells of the tumor stroma are included. Studies with combination therapies will be facilitated by selective PDGFR inhibitors with reduced side effects. Finally, development of improved companion diagnostics is of critical importance for patient selection and monitoring of therapeutic effects.
Insights
Platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) signaling is implicated in various cancers. Inhibiting PDGFR shows promise for novel cancer therapies, but understanding resistance mechanisms is key for advancing treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Genetics
Background:
- Platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) aberrations are prevalent in glioblastomas, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, and gastrointestinal stromal tumors.
- PDGFRs expressed by tumor stroma cells may promote tumor growth and hinder drug delivery.
- Genetic mutations affecting PDGFR signaling are also observed in other common cancer types.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of PDGFR signaling in solid tumors.
- To discuss emerging therapeutic strategies targeting PDGFR.
- To highlight the role of PDGFR in cancer development and progression.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of experimental studies and clinical findings on PDGFR signaling in solid tumors.
- Analysis of ongoing research in PDGFR inhibition therapies.
- Discussion of tyrosine kinase inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies targeting PDGFR.
Main Results:
- PDGFR signaling plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of several solid tumors.
- Targeting PDGFR with inhibitors is a developing therapeutic approach.
- Stromal PDGFRs can influence tumor progression and drug penetration.
Conclusions:
- Further research into response and resistance mechanisms is crucial for PDGFR-directed cancer therapy.
- Clinical studies incorporating systematic analyses of PDGFR status in both malignant and stromal cells are needed.
- Development of selective PDGFR inhibitors and companion diagnostics will facilitate therapeutic advances.
More Related Videos
10:27Testing Targeted Therapies in Cancer using Structural DNA Alteration Analysis and Patient-Derived Xenografts
Published on: July 25, 2020
08:35Therapeutic Gene Delivery and Transfection in Human Pancreatic Cancer Cells using Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-targeted Gelatin Nanoparticles
Published on: January 4, 2012
Related Concept Videos
Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
Targeted Cancer Therapies
Mitogens and the Cell Cycle
Transducer Mechanism: Enzyme-Linked Receptors
Major types that are helpful drug targets include:
Treatment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors and Calcium Channel Blockers
TKIs, such as imatinib (Gleevec), are particularly effective in tackling the growth and mitogenic factors that become upregulated in PAH patients. These factors contribute to the...
Antiplatelet Drugs: Prostaglandin Synthesis, P2Y12 and Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Inhibitors
Prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors, exemplified by the widely known aspirin, wield their power by irreversibly acetylating...