PDGF α receptor is a mediator for Cisplatin-induced Met expression

Abstract

For decades, platinum drugs have been the mainstay of cancer treatment. However, over time, drug resistance develops, leaving few treatment options. Here we show that platelet-derived growth factor α receptor (PDGF α receptor)-mediated signaling plays a key role in hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor (c-Met) upregulation, which in turn is thought to play an important role in chemotherapy resistance. PDGF α receptor inhibition eliminates cisplatin-dependent Met expression in cervical cancer cell lines. PDGF α receptor inhibitors are widely used in clinical settings, suggesting that the clinical translation of our findings could reduce the suffering of people from drug resistance.