Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) - key factor in normal and pathological angiogenesis

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Cell Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a critical regulator of angiogenesis, influencing endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and survival.
• The VEGF family includes multiple members (e.g., VEGF-A, VEGF-B, PlGF) that bind to tyrosine kinase receptors (VEGFRs) like VEGFR-1, VEGFR-2, and VEGFR-3.
• VEGFR-2 exhibits the strongest pro-angiogenic activity, while VEGFR-3 is primarily involved in lymphatic endothelial cells.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in understanding the VEGF family and its receptors.
• To highlight the implications of VEGF signaling in normal and pathological angiogenesis.
• To emphasize the therapeutic potential of targeting VEGF and VEGFRs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent data on VEGF family members and their receptors.
• Analysis of the roles of VEGF and VEGFRs in endothelial and non-endothelial cells.
• Discussion of current anti-VEGF and anti-VEGFR therapies.

Main Results:

• VEGF family members and their receptors play diverse roles in regulating angiogenesis.
• VEGF and VEGFRs are expressed on both endothelial and non-endothelial cells, modulating signaling pathways.
• Co-receptors like neuropilins influence tyrosine kinase receptor activity.

Conclusions:

• VEGF signaling is fundamental to angiogenesis, making it a significant target for therapeutic intervention.
• Blocking angiogenesis via anti-VEGF and anti-VEGFR therapies holds great promise for treating angiogenesis-dependent diseases, particularly cancer.
• Continued research into the VEGF family and its receptors is essential for developing more effective treatments.