Pharmacogenomics What is the endothelial factor?

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a signaling protein produced by cells to stimulate vasculogenesis (the formation of an embryonic vascular system) and angiogenesis (the growth of new vessels in an existing vascular system). Currently, several different factors of this family are known (which, in turn, is a subclass of the currently rather extensive class of growth factors). VEGF proteins are part of the system responsible for restoring oxygen supply to tissues in situations where blood circulation is insufficient. The concentration of VEGF in the blood serum is increased in bronchial asthma and diabetes mellitus. The main functions of VEGF are the creation of new blood vessels during embryonic development or after trauma, enhancement of muscle growth after exercise, and ensuring collateral circulation (creation of new vessels when existing ones are blocked).

@argentum Thanks a lot for such a detailed answer!