Vaatgroeifactor

Vaatgroeifactor, in Dutch, refers to any molecule or signal that promotes the growth of blood vessels, a process known as angiogenesis. These factors stimulate endothelial cells to proliferate, migrate and form new vascular structures. Vaatgroeifactoren are relevant in normal physiology such as development, wound healing and response to ischemia, as well as in pathological conditions where aberrant vessel growth occurs.

Most well-known vaatgroeifactoren are pro-angiogenic proteins that interact with specific receptors on endothelial cells. The vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and their receptors are central examples. Other important families include fibroblast growth factors (FGFs), angiopoietins, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) in context-dependent roles. Binding of these factors activates intracellular signaling pathways (for example PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK) that promote endothelial survival, proliferation and tube formation, processes essential for new vessel sprouts and stabilization.

Regulation of vaatgroeifactoren is tightly controlled. Hypoxia commonly upregulates VEGF expression through hypoxia-inducible factors, while inflammatory cells and matrix remodeling also modulate levels. Conversely, anti-angiogenic factors can inhibit vessel growth, maintaining balance in tissue homeostasis.

Clinical and research relevance is substantial. Tumors often exploit vaatgroeifactor signaling to secure a blood supply, leading to the development of anti-angiogenic therapies that target VEGF pathways. Conversely, strategies to enhance angiogenesis are explored to improve wound healing and treat ischemic diseases. Measurement and study of vaatgroeifactoren employ molecular assays, cell-based tests and in vivo models to assess their expression, activity and effects on vascular growth.