EG-VEGF: a novel mediator of endocrine-specific angiogenesis, endothelial phenotype, and function.
Angiogenesis is the focus of therapeutic efforts to promote new vessel development in damaged tissues. Conversely, inhibiting endothelial cell growth and survival is a strategy to treat various proliferative diseases. Much evidence indicates that VEGF is a key mediator of angiogenesis. Recently, a novel angiogenic mitogen with tissue-specific expression and target selectivity was characterized. Human endocrine gland derived vascular endothelial growth factor (EG-VEGF) is selectively expressed in steroidogenic glands and promotes growth of endocrine gland endothelium. The identification of tissue-selective angiogenic factors raises the possibility that other secreted molecules in this class exist. The potential advantage of tissue-specific angiogenic therapeutics may be the reduction of systemic side effects. Additionally, these peptides or their receptors may be attractive targets for inhibition in several disorders.
Lecouter
Jennifer
J
Department of Molecular Oncology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, California 94080, USA.
Lin
Rui
R
Ferrara
Napoleone
N
D004703:Endocrine System / Q000098:blood supply* / Q000166:cytology; D042783:Endothelial Cells / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D018919:Neovascularization, Physiologic / Q000502:physiology*; D042662:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, Endocrine-Gland-Derived / Q000235:genetics* / Q000378:metabolism*
D042662:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, Endocrine-Gland-Derived