[Signaling 101] Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) Signaling (Part II)

Now that we have covered the different types of VEGF and their receptors, let us discuss the functional characteristics of these molecules. 

What are the functions of these receptors?

Different receptors have different functions: (1) VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 is involved in vasculogenic and angiogenic pathways while (2) VEGFR3 is involved in lymphanogenic pathway. In general, however, VEGFR receptor signaling works to increase permeability, proliferation, survival, migration, and mobilization vascular endothelial cells.

How does VEGF signaling mechanism look like?

Here's a figure that briefly shows the signaling mechanism of VEGF. 

<Kerbel RS. N Engl J Med 2008;358:2039-2049.>

After VEGF and receptor interaction, the tyrosine kinase domain gets auto-phosphorylated, meaninig phophosphate groups (PO4) get attached to the receptor's inner cell domain. Then, neighboring signaling molecules such as PLC gamma, PI3K, etc attaches to this kinase domain and get activated or inactivated through phosphorylation. The resulting effect of the signaling cascade is vascular permeability, proliferation, etc that were mentioned previously.