Platelet-derived growth factor subunit A (PDGFA), belongs to the PDGF/VEGF growth factor family. PDGFA is a secreted protein, stored in platelet alpha-granules and released by platelets upon wounding. PDGFA is potent mitogens for a variety of cell types including smooth muscle cells, connective tissue cells, bone and cartilage cells, and some blood cells. It plays an essential role in the regulation of embryonic development, cell proliferation, cell migration, survival and chemotaxis. PDGFA is required for normal lung alveolar septum formation during embryogenesis, normal development of the gastrointestinal tract, normal development of Leydig cells and spermatogenesis, normal oligodendrocyte development and normal myelination in the spinal cord and cerebellum. It plays an important role in wound healing, Signaling is modulated by the formation of heterodimers with PDGFB. Synonyms: Platelet-derived growth factor subunit A,PDGF subunit A,PDGF-1,Platelet-derived growth factor A chain,Platelet-derived growth factor alpha polypeptide, PDGFA,PDGF1