Fig. 3.

Multiple mechanisms of VEGF in the tumor microenvironment

Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) have multiple functions in the tumor microenvironment. VEGF secreted by vascular endothelial cells modulates factors such as endothelial cell proliferation during angiogenesis, reconstruction of the extracellular matrix, and vascular permeability, thereby maintaining the function of vascular endothelial cells. In contrast, in the tumor microenvironment, VEGF secreted by tumor cells acts to promote tumor cell infiltration and survival. VEGF also modulates tumor immune response by inhibiting dendritic cell function and regulating the function of suppressor T cells. The functions of VEGF are also related to tumor fibroblasts and macrophages. Quoted from the following articles:

(40) Goal HL, Mercurio AM. Nat Rev Cancer 2013; 13: 871–882.

(41) Terme M et al. Caner Res 2013; 73: 539–549.