Function:Growth factor active in angiogenesis, vasculogenesis and endothelial cell growth. Induces endothelial cell proliferation, promotes cell migration, inhibits apoptosis, and induces permeabilization of blood vessels. Binds to the VEGFR1/Flt-1 and VEGFR2/Kdr receptors, heparan sulfate and heparin. Neuropilin-1 binds isoforms VEGF-165 and VEGF-145. Isoform VEGF165B binds to VEGFR2/Kdr but doesn't activate downstream signaling pathways, doesn't activate angiogenesis and inhibits tumor growth.,induction:Regulated by growth factors, cytokines, gonadotropins, nitric oxide, hypoxia, hypoglycemia and oncogenic mutations.,online information:VEGF entry,similarity:Belongs to the PDGF/VEGF growth factor family.,subcellular location:VEGF121 is acidic and freely secreted. VEGF165 is more basic, has heparin-binding properties and, although a signicant proportion remains cell-associated, most is freely secreted. VEGF189 is very basic, it is cell-associated after secretion and is bound avidly by heparin and the extracellular matrix, although it may be released as a soluble form by heparin, heparinase or plasmin.,subunit:Homodimer; disulfide-linked. Also found as heterodimer with PlGF.,tissue specificity:The VEGF189, VEGF-165 and VEGF-121 isoforms are widely expressed, whereas the VEGF206 and VEGF-145 are uncommon.,
show all