The role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in cancer cells is not limited to angiogenesis; there are also multiple factors, such as neuropilins (non-tyrosine kinases receptors), tyrosine kinases receptors, immunodeficiencies, and integrins, that interact with VEGF signaling and cause cancer initiation. By combating these factors, tumor progression can be inhibited or limited. Natural products are sources of several bioactive phytochemicals that can interact with VEGF-promoting factors and inhibit them through various signaling pathways, thereby inhibiting cancer growth. This review provides a deeper understanding of the relation and interaction of VEGF with cancer-promoting factors and phytochemicals in order to develop multi-targeted cancer prevention and treatment.
Keywords: Notch ligand Delta-like 4; epithelial–mesenchymal transition; estrogen receptor-β; focal adhesion kinases; hypoxia-inducible factor; neuropilins; placental growth factor-1; prolyl hydroxylase 2; receptor tyrosine kinases; vascular endothelial growth factor.