Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) induces mitosis in fibroblasts, smooth-muscle cells, and other cells. Isoforms of this factor induce homodimerisation or heterodimerisation of specific membrane tyrosine kinases—the α and β PDGF receptors (PDGFR). PDGFR dimerisation leads to autophosphorylation, resulting in cell growth, chemotaxis, actin reorganisation, and prevention of apoptosis. In several tumours, aberrant PDGF or PDGFR signalling constitutively activates a cell-signalling cascade. Moreover, inhibition of PDGFR activity can lead to tumour regression.

Peripheral T-cell lymphomas are a rare and heterogeneous group of tumours, the most common of which are those that are not otherwise specified. This subtype show aggressive clinical behaviour, resistance to conventional chemotherapy, and a poor prognosis. The molecular pathogenesis is mainly unknown, and specific genomic aberrations have not been identified.