VEGFrelated

VEGFrelated is a term that refers to proteins and genes that are functionally associated with Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF). VEGF is a critical signaling protein involved in vasculogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels from precursor cells) and angiogenesis (the growth of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones). The VEGF family of proteins plays a vital role in normal physiological processes such as embryonic development and wound healing.

However, dysregulation of VEGF signaling is also implicated in various pathological conditions, most notably cancer. In tumors, VEGF promotes the growth of new blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients, enabling the tumor to grow and metastasize. Consequently, VEGF and its related pathways have become important targets for cancer therapies.

VEGFrelated genes encode not only the VEGF proteins themselves but also their receptors, co-receptors, and other signaling molecules that participate in the VEGF pathway. For instance, the VEGF receptor family (VEGFRs), which are tyrosine kinases, are crucial for mediating VEGF's effects. Inhibiting these receptors is a common strategy in anti-angiogenic cancer treatments.

Understanding VEGFrelated pathways is fundamental to developing treatments for diseases characterized by abnormal blood vessel formation, including certain eye diseases like age-related macular degeneration, as well as various types of cancer. Research continues to explore the complexities of VEGF signaling to identify new therapeutic targets and improve existing ones.