PDGF R alpha (Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor alpha) is a transmembrane receptor tyrosine kinase that can form homodimers or heterodimers with PDGF R beta when engaged by dimers of the PDGF ligands. PDGF R alpha binds to PDGF-AA, PDGF-AB, and PDGF-CC. It is strongly expressed in oligodendrocyte, lung, skin, and intestinal progenitor cells, at low levels in most mesenchymal cells, and can be induced by inflammation. PDGF R alpha function is important during formation of the cranial and cardiac neural crest, retina, gonads, lung alveoli, intestinal villi, skin, hair follicles, skeleton, teeth, palate, and interstitial kidney mesenchyme. Dysregulated PDGF R alpha signaling can result in spina bifida or cleft palate-type malformations. Postnatally, PDGF R alpha is implicated in gliomas and fibrotic disorders of lung, heart, and skin (scleroderma).