The Role of the VEGF Family in Atherosclerosis Development and Its Potential as Treatment Targets

Int J Mol Sci. 2022 Jan 15;23(2):931. doi: 10.3390/ijms23020931.

Abstract

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family, the crucial regulator of angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, lipid metabolism and inflammation, is involved in the development of atherosclerosis and further CVDs (cardiovascular diseases). This review discusses the general regulation and functions of VEGFs, their role in lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis development and progression. These functions present the great potential of applying the VEGF family as a target in the treatment of atherosclerosis and related CVDs. In addition, we discuss several modern anti-atherosclerosis VEGFs-targeted experimental procedures, drugs and natural compounds, which could significantly improve the efficiency of atherosclerosis and related CVDs' treatment.

Keywords: VEGF; angiogenesis; atherosclerosis; cardiovascular diseases; inflammation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / pharmacology
  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Atherosclerosis / drug therapy
  • Atherosclerosis / metabolism*
  • Biological Factors / pharmacology
  • Biological Factors / therapeutic use
  • Gene Expression Regulation / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Lipid Metabolism
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors / drug effects
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors / metabolism*

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors
  • Biological Factors
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors