Endoteelikasvutekijä

Endoteelikasvutekijä, also known as endothelial growth factor (EGF) or vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), is a family of proteins that play a crucial role in the growth and development of blood vessels. These proteins are primarily produced by endothelial cells, which line the interior surface of blood vessels, and are involved in various physiological processes, including angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels from existing ones.

EGF and VEGF are part of a larger family of growth factors that bind to specific receptors on the surface of cells. They signal through these receptors to initiate a cascade of intracellular events that promote cell proliferation, migration, and survival. This makes them essential for the growth and maintenance of blood vessels, as well as for the development of other tissues and organs.

Endoteelikasvutekijä is also implicated in several pathological conditions. For example, VEGF is often overexpressed in tumors, contributing to the formation of new blood vessels that supply the tumor with nutrients and oxygen. This process, known as tumor angiogenesis, is a critical step in tumor growth and progression. Additionally, EGF and VEGF have been linked to various diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetic retinopathy, and certain types of cancer.

Research into endoteelikasvutekijä and its receptors has led to the development of targeted therapies for various diseases. For instance, bevacizumab, a monoclonal antibody that targets VEGF, has been approved for the treatment of certain types of cancer, including colorectal, lung, and breast cancer. These therapies aim to inhibit the growth of new blood vessels, thereby slowing the progression of the disease.