Skip to main content

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor

Meaning

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) is a highly specific, dimeric signaling protein, or growth factor, that plays a critical and multifaceted role in the process of angiogenesis and vasculogenesis, which is the formation of new blood vessels. This potent polypeptide stimulates the proliferation, migration, and survival of endothelial cells, the cells that form the inner lining of blood vessels. In hormonal health, VEGF is relevant because its expression is often modulated by sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone, thereby influencing tissue perfusion, wound healing, and the efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to metabolically active and regenerating tissues.