Angiogenesis pathway proteins

Angiogenesis pathway proteins represent a broad class of signaling molecules, receptors, and enzymes that regulate the physiological and pathological formation of new blood vessels from the existing vasculature [1.3.3, 1.3.5]. The pathway is primarily governed by the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family and its tyrosine kinase receptors (VEGFR-1, -2, and -3), which stimulate endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and survival [1.1.2, 1.3.4]. Other essential components include fibroblast growth factors (FGFs), platelet-derived growth factors (PDGFs), angiopoietins, and the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) transcription factors, which respond to low oxygen levels to trigger the "angiogenic switch" [1.2.2, 1.3.2]. In diseases such as cancer, these proteins are often overexpressed, facilitating tumor growth and metastasis by providing a dedicated blood supply [1.2.3, 1.2.5]. Therapeutic agents targeting this pathway, such as the monoclonal antibody bevacizumab and various multi-kinase inhibitors like sunitinib, are widely used to treat malignancies and neovascular eye disorders [1.1.3, 1.2.4]. However, clinical use is often limited by the development of drug resistance and systemic side effects, including hypertension and impaired wound healing [1.1.2, 1.3.4].

Other names

Angiogenic factorsPro-angiogenic proteinsNeovascularization factorsAngiogenesis-related proteinsAngiogenic signaling molecules

Inhibition of pro-angiogenic ligand binding to receptors, neutralization of circulating growth factors, and inhibition of receptor tyrosine kinase intracellular signaling.