Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) is a protein that plays a crucial role in the formation of new blood vessels, a process called angiogenesis. It helps tissues grow by signaling the body to develop blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients. VEGF is essential during wound healing and development but can also be involved in diseases like cancer, where tumors stimulate blood vessel growth to support their growth. Scientists study VEGF to develop therapies that can either promote blood vessel growth in conditions like heart disease or inhibit it in cancer treatment.