PlGF2

PlGF2, or placental growth factor 2, is an isoform of placental growth factor, part of the VEGF family. It is produced by alternative splicing of the PGF gene in humans, yielding multiple PlGF isoforms including PlGF-1, PlGF-2 and PlGF-3. PlGF-2 is a secreted angiogenic factor sharing the VEGF homology domain with other PlGF proteins. It can bind to the VEGF receptor-1 (VEGFR1/FLT1) and, in some contexts, interacts with co-receptors such as neuropilins, to promote endothelial cell proliferation, migration and new vessel formation. The isoforms differ in their affinity for extracellular matrix and in tissue distribution; PlGF-2 is commonly expressed in placental tissue and in other human tissues under developmental and pathophysiological conditions.

Biological roles: PlGF-2 is involved in placental vascular development and acts as a pro-angiogenic mediator in pregnancy. Outside the placenta, it contributes to angiogenesis and vascular remodeling during tissue repair, ischemia, and tumor growth. Its activity is often described in relation to VEGF-A signaling, where PlGF can modulate VEGF-A availability and signaling through VEGFR1.

Clinical relevance: PlGF and its isoforms, including PlGF-2, are studied as biomarkers of placental function and pregnancy-related disorders; low maternal PlGF levels are associated with preeclampsia, while high PlGF may be involved in tumor neovascularization and ocular neovascular diseases. Therapeutic strategies have explored delivering PlGF to promote perfusion in ischemic tissues or to enhance wound healing, as well as anti-angiogenic approaches in cancer by targeting PlGF-VEGFR1 signaling.