Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) is a sub-family of growth factors, specifically the platelet-derived growth factor family of cystine-knot growth factors . VEGF plays a crucial role in both vasculogenesis (the formation of the embryonic circulatory system) and angiogenesis (the growth of blood vessels from pre-existing vasculature) . It is a key regulator of angiogenesis and is central to processes such as tumor growth and metastatic dissemination .
Human recombinant VEGF, particularly VEGF165, is a bioactive form that has been extensively studied for its role in promoting angiogenesis and vascular permeability . The recombinant form is produced using various expression systems, including Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells, which are commonly used for the production of therapeutic proteins due to their ability to perform post-translational modifications similar to those in humans .
The production of human recombinant VEGF involves several steps:
VEGF mediates its effects by binding to specific receptors on the surface of endothelial cells, primarily VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2 . This binding activates a cascade of signaling pathways that promote endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and new blood vessel formation . The biological activity of recombinant VEGF can be assessed using various assays, such as the Chicken chorioallantoic membrane assay and wound-healing migration assays .
Recombinant VEGF has significant therapeutic potential. It is used in research to study angiogenesis and in clinical settings to promote wound healing and treat conditions such as ischemic heart disease and peripheral artery disease . Additionally, VEGF inhibitors are used in cancer therapy to inhibit tumor growth by blocking angiogenesis .