Pigment epithelium-derived factor receptor (PEDF-R)

Pigment epithelium-derived factor receptors (PEDF receptors or PEDF-Rs) are cell surface proteins that mediate the biological effects of the secreted protein PEDF. PEDF is a multifunctional serpin with strong anti-angiogenic, neuroprotective, anti-tumorigenic, and anti-inflammatory activities. PEDF-Rs are expressed on various cell types including endothelial and neural cells, where they trigger distinct signaling cascades in response to PEDF binding, leading to inhibition of angiogenesis, induction of neuronal differentiation, apoptosis in endothelial cells, and anti-tumor effects. Several distinct PEDF-responsive receptors have been described, including those with enzymatic activity (e.g., PNPLA2/ATGL), reflecting the pleiotropic actions of PEDF. PEDF and its receptors are therapeutic targets for neovascular eye disorders, some cancers, and neurodegenerative diseases, and they are under active investigation as components of engineered proteins and gene therapies for clinical use.

Other names

PEDF receptorPEDF-Rphopholipase A2 receptor (sometimes PLA2G7, but may include multiple molecular receptors for PEDF, notably ATGL/PNPLA2 in neural tissue and LRP6 in endothelial cells)

Anti-angiogenesis via inhibition of VEGFA signaling; Neuroprotection through modulation of neuronal differentiation and survival pathways; Antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic signaling in tumor and endothelial cells