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VEGF induces cardiovascular malformation and embryonic lethality
M Feucht1, B Christ, J Wilting
1Anatomisches Institut II, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Germany.
The American Journal of Pathology
|November 14, 1997
Summary
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) causes severe cardiovascular malformations and embryonic lethality when applied during quail embryonic development. Tightly controlled VEGF expression is crucial for normal heart development.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Cardiovascular Biology
- Embryology
Background:
- Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is essential for embryonic angiogenesis.
- The role of VEGF during the organogenetic phase of development remains largely unstudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of exogenous VEGF on quail embryonic development, specifically during organogenesis.
- To determine the impact of VEGF on cardiovascular development and embryonic survival.
Main Methods:
- Administration of VEGF (0.7–0.9 µg) or platelet-derived growth factor (1 µg) to 4.5-day-old quail embryos via methylcellulose carriers.
- Control groups received carriers without growth factors.
- Detailed morphological and histological analysis of treated embryos.
Main Results:
- VEGF application led to significant cardiovascular malformations and embryonic lethality.
- Widespread venous dilation was observed in multiple organs.
- The heart exhibited signs of insufficiency, including thin ventricular myocardium, septation defects, dilated atria, and increased endocardial cell proliferation.
Conclusions:
- Exogenous VEGF disrupts normal cardiovascular development during quail embryogenesis.
- Aberrant VEGF signaling can lead to severe heart malformations, resembling congenital syndromes.
- Precise regulation of VEGF expression is critical for embryonic development and survival.