Vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGFC) (VEGFC)

Vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGFC) is a signaling protein that serves as the primary driver of lymphangiogenesis, the growth of new lymphatic vessels [1]. It functions by binding to and activating the receptor tyrosine kinase VEGFR-3, and to a lesser extent VEGFR-2, on the surface of endothelial cells [2]. While essential for embryonic development and fluid homeostasis, VEGFC is frequently hijacked by tumors to promote lymphatic metastasis [2, 4]. By stimulating the expansion of the lymphatic network around a tumor, VEGFC increases the likelihood of cancer cells entering the lymphatic system and spreading to distant organs [5]. Consequently, the VEGFC/VEGFR-3 axis is a major therapeutic target in oncology and ophthalmology. Current pharmacological approaches include ligand-trapping molecules like Sozinibercept and various multi-kinase inhibitors that block receptor activity to inhibit tumor progression and vascular leakage [3].

Other names

VEGF-CVascular endothelial growth factor-related proteinVRPFlt4 ligand

Inhibition of the VEGFC ligand or its primary receptor VEGFR-3 to prevent activation of downstream signaling pathways responsible for lymphatic endothelial cell growth, survival, and migration [1, 2].