Structure and function of vascular endothelial growth factor and its receptor system

BMB Rep. 2018 Feb;51(2):73-78. doi: 10.5483/bmbrep.2018.51.2.233.

Abstract

Vascular endothelial growth factor and its receptor (VEGF-VEGFR) system play a critical role in the regulation of angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis in vertebrates. Each of the VEGF has specific receptors, which it activates by binding to the extracellular domain of the receptors, and, thus, regulates the angiogenic balance in the early embryonic and adult stages. However, de-regulation of the VEGF-VEGFR implicates directly in various diseases, particularly cancer. Moreover, tumor growth needs a dedicated blood supply to provide oxygen and other essential nutrients. Tumor metastasis requires blood vessels to carry tumors to distant sites, where they can implant and begin the growth of secondary tumors. Thus, investigation of signaling systems related to the human disease, such as VEGF-VEGFR, will facilitate the development of treatments for such illnesses. [BMB Reports 2018; 51(2): 73-78].

Publication types

  • News

MeSH terms

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Ligands
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / drug therapy
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / metabolism
  • Receptors, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor / chemistry*
  • Receptors, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor / metabolism*
  • Signal Transduction
  • Structure-Activity Relationship
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / chemistry*
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / metabolism*

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors
  • Ligands
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A
  • Receptors, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor