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Updated: Nov 20, 2025
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A Simple Bioassay for the Evaluation of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors
Published on: March 15, 2016
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Exploring the Intracrine Functions of VEGF-A
Sophie Wiszniak1, Quenten Schwarz1
1Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia.
Biomolecules
|January 22, 2021
Summary
Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF) has known roles in blood vessel growth. New research shows intracellular VEGF also regulates cell functions, impacting cancer and normal development.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF) is crucial for vascular development and angiogenesis.
- VEGF and its receptors (VEGFR1, VEGFR2) are expressed in various non-vascular cells and cancers.
- Beyond secreted signaling, intracellular VEGF is recognized for its regulatory roles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the emerging concept of intracrine VEGF signaling.
- To highlight VEGF's intracellular functions in cell growth, differentiation, and survival.
- To explore the implications for cancer therapeutics.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on VEGF signaling.
- Analysis of research on intracellular VEGF localization and function.
- Discussion of molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential.
Main Results:
- Intracrine VEGF signaling regulates cell growth, differentiation, and survival in normal and cancerous cells.
- VEGF's intracellular actions are distinct from its paracrine/autocrine functions.
- Evidence supports a role for intracellular VEGF in cancer progression.
Conclusions:
- Intracrine VEGF signaling is a significant biological process.
- Understanding intracellular VEGF mechanisms is vital for developing targeted anti-VEGF therapies.
- This signaling pathway offers new avenues for cancer treatment strategies.
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