Vegfa Protein Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A is an important component in the neurobiology of neurodegenerative diseases. This page provides detailed information about its structure, function, and role in disease processes.
| Protein Name | Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A |
|---|---|
| Gene | [VEGFA](/genes/vegfa) |
| UniProt ID | P15692 |
| PDB ID | 1VPF, 1M2I, 4KKS |
| Molecular Weight | 19-24 kDa (depending on isoform) |
| Subcellular Localization | Secreted, extracellular |
| Protein Family | PDGF/VEGF family |
VEGFA (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A) is a key signaling protein that stimulates angiogenesis, increases vascular permeability, and exerts neuroprotective effects. Originally characterized for its role in vascular development and tumor angiogenesis, VEGFA is now recognized as an important regulator of neuronal survival, neurogenesis, and synaptic plasticity in the central nervous system.
VEGFA is produced in multiple isoforms through alternative splicing:
| Isoform | Amino Acids | Properties |
|---|---|---|
| VEGF₁₂₁ | 121 | Freely diffusible |
| VEGF₁₆₅ | 165 | Heparin-binding, predominant |
| VEGF₁₈₉ | 189 | Highly cell-associated |
| VEGF₂₀₆ | 206 | Rare, cell-associated |
VEGFA signals through two main receptor tyrosine kinases:
VEGFR-2 (KDR/Flk-1): Primary signaling receptor
VEGFR-1 (Flt-1): Decoy receptor
| Approach | Indication | Status |
|---|---|---|
| AAV-VEGF gene therapy | PD, AD | Phase II |
| VEGF protein delivery | Stroke | Preclinical |
| VEGF receptor agonists | AD | Discovery |
| Drug | Target | Approved Use |
|---|---|---|
| Bevacizumab | VEGF | Cancer |
| Ranibizumab | VEGF | AMD |
| Aflibercept | VEGF | AMD |
The study of Vegfa Protein Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A has evolved significantly over the past decades. Research in this area has revealed important insights into the underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration and continues to drive therapeutic development.
Historical context and key discoveries in this field have shaped our current understanding and will continue to guide future research directions.
[1] Ferrara N, et al. Nat Med. 2003;9(6):669-676. PMID:12778165
[2] Storkebaum E, et al. Nat Rev Neurosci. 2009;10(10):703-714. PMID:19763104
[3] Lange C, et al. Neurobiol Aging. 2016;45:33-47. PMID:27453334
[4] Ruiz de Almodovar C, et al. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab. 2009;29(9):1543-1554. PMID:19503051
[5] Zaccarini M, et al. J Exp Clin Cancer Res. 2020;39(1):255. PMID:33239094