VEGFR1 as a Target for Cardiovascular Gene Therapy

Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (VEGFR1) is a key regulator of endothelial function, angiogenesis, inflammation, and cardiomyocyte survival, with both beneficial and deleterious effects in cardiovascular disease. In this review, we provide some key information on the molecular biology governing VEGFR1 function, its role in cardiovascular diseases and describe gene therapy strategies targeting either membrane-bound or its soluble isoform sFLT1 to treat these diseases. Clinical Relevance Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Thus, new therapeutic targets and strategies are warranted to mitigate CVDs economic and societal burdens. Members of the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) family and their receptors stand as key players in the majority of biological processes underlying CVDs, including inflammation, angiogenesis, and cardiomyocyte function. This review focuses on the role of VEGFR1 in the onset and progression of the most common CVDs, with particular emphasis on the signaling mechanisms occurring in different cell types, and discusses its potential as a target for gene therapy.