ABSTRACT
Introduction Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a much-studied cytokine active in the growth and maintenance of blood vessels. This occurs in fetal development and normal growth. In clinical terms, it is of interest with regards to its key role in supporting the neoangiogenesis, which is necessary for the growth of solid tumors. Extensive research has been directed in understanding this role and attempting to block the actions of VEGF in cancers. VEGF research interest has also been active with regard to rheumatoid arthritis and proliferative diabetic retinopathy. This chapter will not deal further with such other aspects of VEGF’s properties.
