Atherosclerotic plaque development and instability: a dual role for VEGF
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 27, 2026

Calcification of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells and Imaging of Aortic Calcification and Inflammation
Published on: May 31, 2016
Pieter W Holm1, Riemer H J A Slart, Clark J Zeebregts
1Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a potent growth factor for endothelial cells and inducer of angiogenesis, is important for endothelial integrity and thus for vascular function. On the other hand, VEGF may enhance the pathophysiologic mechanism of plaque formation and plaque destabilization. In this review we discuss the data available so far for VEGF as angiogenic and/or inflammatory cytokine in the vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque.
Related Concept Videos
Atherosclerosis I: Introduction
Regulation of Angiogenesis and Blood Supply
Coronary Artery Disease II: Pathophysiology
Mechanism of Angiogenesis
Inflammation
Clot Retraction and Fibrinolysis

