The VEGF pathway
VEGF plays a central role in angiogenesis throughout tumour development
The production of VEGF is stimulated by upstream activators, including environmental cues, growth factors, oncogenes, cytokines and hormones. The binding of VEGF to its receptors on the surface of endothelial cells activates intracellular TKs, triggering multiple downstream signals that promote angiogenesis. Although there are multiple variants of both VEGF and its receptor, the angiogenic effects of this pathway are primarily mediated through the interaction of VEGF-A (the most common variant, often referred to simply as VEGF) with VEGFR-2. Other non-VEGF factors are thought to play a secondary role in angiogenesis, though many of these factors may also impact additional nonangiogenic pathways.3–5,15,16
VEGF: at the centre of the angiogenic pathway3,4
More specifically, a number of interrelated signals and processes have been identified that lead to the production of VEGF and, subsequently, to neovascularisation of a tumour. The pages that follow provide a detailed explanation of the various steps in the VEGF pathway.
- VEGF is produced in response to a variety of environmental and cellular stimuli.
- An imbalance between pro- and anti-angiogenic factors can turn on the 'angiogenic switch'.
- VEGF binds to the VEGF family of receptors.
- Receptor binding initiates a downstream signalling cascade.
To go directly to a particular section of the pathway, click on the links below.
Environmental and cellular triggers of VEGF production
VEGF expression and the angiogenic switch
- Disclaimer: Avastin.net is a comprehensive resource for healthcare professionals outside the US. If you are a US resident please visit www.avastin.comThe information on this site is not country-specific and may contain information that is outside the approved indications in the country in which you are located.