Vascular endothelial growth factor A messenger RNA (VEGFA mRNA) (VEGFA mRNA)

Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) messenger RNA is the genetic template for the synthesis of VEGF-A, a potent signaling protein that stimulates the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) and increases vascular permeability (UniProt P15692). In many cancers and ocular diseases like age-related macular degeneration, the over-expression of VEGF mRNA drives the formation of abnormal, leaky blood vessels that facilitate disease progression (PubMed PMID: 12359438). Therapeutic interventions targeting this mRNA typically utilize RNA interference (RNAi) technologies, such as small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) like bevasiranib to trigger the degradation of the transcript before it can be translated into protein (Opko Health, 2009). Alternatively, modified mRNA sequences (e.g., AZD8601) are being developed as pro-angiogenic therapies to treat ischemic conditions by promoting the localized production of VEGF protein (Nature Communications, 2020). These mRNA-focused approaches offer a distinct regulatory mechanism compared to traditional monoclonal antibodies that target the secreted protein, though they face challenges regarding delivery and potential immune activation (Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, 2009). The use of siRNA allows for a catalytic reduction in protein production, potentially offering longer-lasting effects than protein-binding agents. Conversely, mRNA-based delivery provides a transient and controlled method for protein replacement without the risks associated with permanent genomic modification.

Other names

VEGF-A mRNAVascular permeability factor mRNAVPF mRNAVEGFA transcript

RNA interference (RNAi) via siRNA-mediated degradation of the mRNA transcript; mRNA-based protein replacement therapy using synthetic modified mRNA sequences (PubMed PMID: 23749244, Nature Communications 2020).