The biology of VEGF and its receptors

N Ferrara, HP Gerber, J LeCouter - Nature medicine, 2003 - nature.com
N Ferrara, HP Gerber, J LeCouter
Nature medicine, 2003nature.com
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a key regulator of physiological angiogenesis
during embryogenesis, skeletal growth and reproductive functions. VEGF has also been
implicated in pathological angiogenesis associated with tumors, intraocular neovascular
disorders and other conditions. The biological effects of VEGF are mediated by two receptor
tyrosine kinases (RTKs), VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2, which differ considerably in signaling
properties. Non-signaling co-receptors also modulate VEGF RTK signaling. Currently …
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a key regulator of physiological angiogenesis during embryogenesis, skeletal growth and reproductive functions. VEGF has also been implicated in pathological angiogenesis associated with tumors, intraocular neovascular disorders and other conditions. The biological effects of VEGF are mediated by two receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2, which differ considerably in signaling properties. Non-signaling co-receptors also modulate VEGF RTK signaling. Currently, several VEGF inhibitors are undergoing clinical testing in several malignancies. VEGF inhibition is also being tested as a strategy for the prevention of angiogenesis, vascular leakage and visual loss in age-related macular degeneration.
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