This gene encodes a cell surface tyrosine kinase receptor for members of the platelet-derived growth factor family. These growth factors are mitogens for cells of mesenchymal origin. The identity of the growth factor bound to a receptor monomer determines whether the functional receptor is a homodimer or a heterodimer，composed of both platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha and beta polypeptides. Studies suggest that this gene plays a role in organ development，wound healing，and tumor progression. Mutations in this gene have been associated with idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome，somatic and familial gastrointestinal stromal tumors，and a variety of other cancers. [provided by RefSeq，Mar 2012].