Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Inhibitor (VEGF Inhibitor)

Vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors (VEGF inhibitors or anti-VEGF agents) are a class of drugs that block the activity of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a key signaling protein involved in angiogenesis—the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing vasculature. These agents can also target VEGF receptors (VEGFRs), which are tyrosine kinase receptors on the surface of endothelial cells. By inhibiting either the ligand (VEGF) or its receptor (VEGFR), these drugs disrupt abnormal blood vessel growth associated with tumors or retinal diseases.

Other names

Anti-VEGF agentsVEGFR inhibitors

Inhibition of VEGF binding to VEGFRs, or direct inhibition of VEGFR tyrosine kinase activity, leading to reduced vascular permeability, decreased endothelial cell survival/proliferation/migration, and impaired vasodilation.