Mechanisms of vascular endothelial growth factor for tumor growth and metastasis:research advances

Angiogenesis is essential for tumor growth and metastasis,and vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF) serves as a major stimulator of pathological angiogenesis.The interaction of VEGF and its receptors can regulate the angiogenesis and promote the proliferation,survival as well as metastasis of tumor cells by the activation of downstream signaling pathways.VEGF and its receptors play an key role in the growth and metastasis of various tumor types.In tumors,VEGF signaling correlates with lymphatic invasion,lymph node and distant metastasis.Furthermore,VEGF can accelerate the growth and metastasis of tumor cell by promoting the renewal of cancer stem cells.Hence VEGF is becoming the focus of tumor research and treatment.This review summarizes the advances on the role of VEGF in tumor growth and metastasis.