Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A/VEGF) interaction with VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2) is key for sprouting angiogenesis in health and disease. VEGF/VEGFR2 signaling promotes endothelial proliferation and migration, as well as the hierarchical organization into leader (tip) and follower (stalk) cells via a dynamic interplay with Notch. Recent studies reveal novel molecular mechanisms to fine-tune VEGF/Notch signaling and tip/stalk cell function during sprouting angiogenesis.
Keywords:
Dll4; ERK; Notch; Sprouting angiogenesis; Tip cells; VEGF signaling.
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Cell Differentiation* / genetics
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Cell Lineage / genetics
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Endothelial Cells / physiology*
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Endothelium, Vascular / growth & development
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Endothelium, Vascular / metabolism
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Feedback, Physiological / physiology*
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Humans
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MAP Kinase Signaling System / physiology
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Molecular Targeted Therapy / methods
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Molecular Targeted Therapy / trends
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Morphogenesis / genetics
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Neovascularization, Pathologic / genetics
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Neovascularization, Pathologic / therapy
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Neovascularization, Physiologic / physiology*
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Receptors, Notch / metabolism
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Signal Transduction / physiology
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Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / metabolism
Substances
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Receptors, Notch
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Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A