Neuropilin-1–Platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta complex (NRP-1–PDGFRβ complex)

The Neuropilin-1–Platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (NRP-1–PDGFRβ) complex is a functional protein assembly that plays a pivotal role in vascular biology and tissue repair. Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) acts as a versatile co-receptor, enhancing the signaling of Platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (PDGFRβ) in response to ligands such as PDGF-BB and PDGF-D [1, 3, 5]. This interaction is crucial for the migration and proliferation of mesenchymal cells, including vascular smooth muscle cells and pericytes, which are essential for blood vessel maturation and stabilization [1, 4]. In the context of oncology, particularly in hepatocellular carcinoma, the formation of this complex has been linked to vascular normalization, a process that improves blood flow and immune cell infiltration into tumors [7, 10]. Conversely, overactivation of the complex is associated with pathological fibrosis and tumor progression in various cancers [3, 14, 15]. Therapeutic agents like Lenvatinib have been shown to modulate the formation of this complex, shifting NRP-1 from its association with VEGFR2 to PDGFRβ to promote a more stable vascular phenotype [7]. Understanding the dynamics of the NRP-1–PDGFRβ complex is vital for developing targeted therapies that balance anti-angiogenic effects with vascular stabilization.

Other names

NRP1-PDGFRB complexNeuropilin-1/PDGFR-beta complexNRP1-PDGFRβ heterocomplexNRP1-PDGFRB signaling complex

Modulation of receptor heterodimerization and downstream signaling pathways (e.g., Crkl-C3G-Rap1 or p130Cas) to regulate vascular stability, pericyte recruitment, and mesenchymal cell activity.