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Vascular endothelial growth factor in the lung
Norbert F Voelkel1, R William Vandivier, Rubin M Tuder
1University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Pulmonary and Critical Care Division, 4200 E. Ninth Ave., C272, Denver, CO 80262, USA. norbert.voelkel@uchsc.edu
Summary
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is vital for lung development and maintenance. This review details VEGF's crucial roles in lung physiology and its involvement in diseases like pulmonary hypertension.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a key regulator of endothelial cell function.
- Lung tissue exhibits high concentrations of VEGF, with numerous lung cells producing and responding to it.
- VEGF is essential for both lung development and maintenance in adult life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of the literature on VEGF in lung physiology and pathology.
- To highlight the critical roles of VEGF in normal lung development and function.
- To explore the involvement of VEGF in acute and chronic lung diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific publications.
- Synthesis of existing research on VEGF in the lung.
- Analysis of VEGF's physiological and pathological functions.
Main Results:
- VEGF is a pluripotent growth and permeability factor with broad effects on endothelial cells.
- VEGF is critical for lung development and serves as a maintenance factor.
- VEGF is implicated in acute lung injury, pulmonary hypertension, and emphysema.
Conclusions:
- VEGF plays a significant role in lung physiology and development.
- VEGF is increasingly recognized as a factor in various acute and chronic lung diseases.
- Further research into VEGF's functions can inform therapeutic strategies for lung conditions.