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Updated: May 15, 2026
09:04
A Simple Bioassay for the Evaluation of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors
Published on: March 15, 2016
Vascular endothelial growth factor--marker for proliferation in thyroid diseases?
P Malkomes1, E Oppermann, W O Bechstein
1Department of General Surgery, University Hospital of Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany. Patrizia.Malkomes@kgu.de
Summary
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is elevated in benign thyroid nodules and Graves' disease, suggesting its role in goiter development and recurrence. This study investigated VEGF and its receptors in human thyrocytes.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is key in angiogenesis and tumor growth.
- The role of VEGF in benign thyroid diseases remains largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression of VEGF and its receptors in primary human thyrocytes.
- To determine the involvement of VEGF in benign thyroid conditions.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of VEGF and its receptors (VEGFR1, VEGFR2) in 50 patients with various thyroid conditions.
- Utilized RNA and protein extraction, PCR, Western blot, and ELISA on thyrocyte cultures and tissue samples.
Main Results:
- Significantly increased VEGF and receptor expression in uninodular and recurrent goiter tissues compared to normal tissue.
- Confirmed active VEGF secretion by thyrocytes.
- Highest VEGF and receptor levels observed in Graves' disease patients.
Conclusions:
- Elevated VEGF and receptor expression in thyrocytes may drive thyroid cell proliferation.
- VEGF signaling could be a critical factor in the pathogenesis of goiter and its recurrence.
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