Complexity in the vascular permeability factor/vascular endothelial growth factor (VPF/VEGF)-receptors signaling

The adult vasculature results from a network of vessels that is originally derived in the embryo by vasculogenesis, a process whereby vessels are formed de novo from endothelial cell (EC) precursors, known as angioblasts. During vasculogenesis, angioblasts proliferate and come together to form an initial network of vessels, also known as the primary capillary plexus. Sprouting and branching of new vessels from the preexisting vessels in the process of angiogenesis remodel the capillary plexus. Normal angiogenesis, a well-balanced process, is important in the embryo to promote primary vascular tree as well as an adequate vasculature from developing organs. On the other hand, pathological angiogenesis which frequently occurrs in tumors, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetic retinopathy and other circumstances can induce their own blood supply from the preexisting vasculature in a route that is close to normal angiogenesis. Vascular permeability factor/vascular endothelial growth factor (VPF/VEGF) is perhaps the most important of pro-angiogenic cytokine because of its ability to regulate most of the steps in the angiogenic cascade. The main goal of this review article is to discuss the complex nature of the mode of action of VPF/VEGF on vascular endothelium. To this end, we conclude that more research needs to be done for completely understanding the VPF/VEGF biology with relation to angiogenesis. (Mol Cell Biochem 264: 51–61, 2004)