VEGF Signaling Regulates Cofilin and the Arp2/3-complex within the Axonal Growth Cone

Over the last decade, our understanding of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has rapidly increased, becoming the focus of many investigations the world over. Besides its classical role in the vascular system, VEGF was also identified as a factor affecting the nervous system. One structure that responds to VEGF-signaling is the axonal growth cone, the correct behavior of which is essential for the development of a properly working neuronal network. It navigates growing axons to their final destination and helps to create proper synapses at predetermined locations. Recent data concerning the impact of VEGF on the actin cytoskeleton of neuronal growth cones are discussed and new findings of VEGF-signaling in regard to actin dynamics are specified. Overall, we describe the role of VEGF regulation of cofilin and the Arp2/3-complex in axonal growth cones.