VEGFR

VEGFR or Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor is a type of receptor that is known to play a crucial role in angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. It is part of the receptor tyrosine kinase family of proteins.

Function

VEGFR is primarily responsible for the regulation of endothelial cell functions. It is activated by the binding of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), leading to a series of downstream events that promote the growth of new blood vessels. This process is essential for various physiological and pathological conditions, including wound healing, inflammation, and tumor growth.

Types

There are three known types of VEGFR, namely VEGFR-1, VEGFR-2, and VEGFR-3. Each type has a unique role in the process of angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis.

• VEGFR-1: Also known as Flt-1 (Fms-like tyrosine kinase 1). It has a high affinity for VEGF-A, but its kinase activity is relatively weak. It is thought to act as a "decoy" receptor, regulating the availability of VEGF-A for VEGFR-2.

• VEGFR-2: Also known as KDR (Kinase insert domain receptor) or Flk-1 (Fetal liver kinase 1). It is the main mediator of VEGF-driven responses in endothelial cells, leading to endothelial cell proliferation, migration, survival, and increased vascular permeability.

• VEGFR-3: Also known as Flt-4 (Fms-like tyrosine kinase 4). It is primarily involved in lymphangiogenesis, the formation of lymphatic vessels.

Clinical significance

Due to its role in angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis, VEGFR is a major target in the treatment of various types of cancer. Several anti-cancer drugs have been developed to inhibit the activity of VEGFR, thereby preventing the growth and spread of tumors. These drugs, known as VEGFR inhibitors, include sunitinib, sorafenib, and pazopanib.

See also

• Angiogenesis
• Lymphangiogenesis
• Receptor tyrosine kinase
• Vascular endothelial growth factor
• VEGFR inhibitors

References

VEGFR Resources
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