Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor B (VEGFB) is a member of the VEGF family that primarily regulates vascular and lymphatic development. It has emerging roles in neuroprotection and metabolism.
VEGFB (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor B) is a growth factor that promotes vascular growth and endothelial cell survival. VEGFB has neuroprotective properties and may support neuronal survival in the peripheral and central nervous systems. VEGFB signaling has been studied in the context of diabetic neuropathy and potentially in neurodegenerative .
VEGFB is a secreted growth factor (approximately 22 kDa homodimer):
- VEGF homology domain: Core receptor-binding region
- Heparin-binding domain: Present in VEGFB167 isoform
- Secreted isoforms: VEGFB167 (heparin-bound), VEGFB189 (extracellular matrix)
VEGFB shares ~50% homology with VEGF-A but has distinct receptor specificity.
VEGFB has specific biological functions:
- Angiogenesis: Promotes blood vessel growth, primarily in heart and skeletal muscle
- Lymphangiogenesis: Regulates lymphatic vascular development
- Metabolic regulation: Enhances fatty acid uptake in endothelial cells
- Neuroprotection: Supports neuronal survival under stress conditions
VEGFB primarily binds VEGFR1 (FLT1) with high affinity, and also interacts with neuropilins.
- Altered VEGFB expression in AD brains
- May contribute to cerebrovascular dysfunction
- Implicated in blood-brain barrier maintenance
- Therapeutic potential for vascular health
- Neuroprotective effects on dopaminergic neurons
- May enhance mitochondrial function
- Supports blood flow to substantia nigra
- Promotes angiogenesis following ischemic injury
- May improve post-stroke recovery
- Role in blood-brain barrier repair
- Affects vascular supply to peripheral nerves
- Potential therapeutic target
VEGFB modulation:
- VEGFB neutralizing antibodies: Being developed for cancer
- VEGFR1 inhibitors: May enhance or inhibit VEGFB effects
- Gene therapy: VEGFB delivery for ischemic conditions