Vascular endothelial growth factor signaling pathways: therapeutic perspective

Area of Science:

• Developmental Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Oncology

Background:

• Vascular network formation is essential for embryonic development, involving complex processes like vasculogenesis and angiogenesis.
• Growth factors, particularly vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) and their receptors, tightly regulate blood vessel development.
• VEGF signaling is implicated in tumor neovascularization and various pathologies, including age-related macular degeneration and rheumatoid arthritis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical role of VEGF in vascular development and its implications in disease.
• To underscore the therapeutic potential of targeting the VEGF axis in cancer and other conditions.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on VEGF function in embryonic development and disease.
• Analysis of studies involving genetic deficiencies in VEGF ligands or receptors.
• Examination of the role of VEGF in tumor angiogenesis and pathological conditions.

Main Results:

• VEGF signaling is indispensable for proper vascular formation and maturation, as evidenced by severe defects in VEGF-deficient models.
• VEGF family members also regulate lymphangiogenesis, vascular permeability, and hematopoiesis.
• Tumor cells release VEGF, promoting neovascularization and tumor growth.

Conclusions:

• The VEGF axis is a fundamental regulator of vascular development and a key player in pathological neovascularization.
• Targeting VEGF signaling presents a promising therapeutic avenue for cancer treatment and managing other VEGF-dependent diseases.