SU 1498, VEGFR2 inhibitor

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

VEGF Receptor 2 also known as KDR or FLK-1 is a receptor tyrosine kinase with a mass of approximately 200 kDa. This receptor is mainly expressed on endothelial cells and is found in multiple body tissues where angiogenesis occurs such as the lungs and kidneys. VEGF Receptor 2 is responsible for binding to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) which initiates a signaling cascade that promotes cell survival migration and new blood vessel formation.

Biological function summary

VEGF Receptor 2 plays an important role in angiogenesis and is essential for vascular development during both physiological and pathological processes. Through interactions with VEGF-A VEGF Receptor 2 forms a signaling complex that activates downstream pathways involved in cellular proliferation and differentiation. This receptor ensures a supply of nutrients and oxygen by facilitating the development of blood vessels in response to hypoxic conditions.

Pathways

The intracellular signaling initiated by VEGF Receptor 2 involves pathways like the PI3K/Akt pathway and the MAPK/ERK pathway. These pathways are critical for mediating cell survival growth and division. VEGF Receptor 2 is also closely related to VEGF Receptor 1 another member of the same receptor family which can modulate the receptor's activity by acting as a decoy receptor therefore affecting angiogenic responses.

VEGF Receptor 2 has a significant role in cancer and age-related macular degeneration. In many tumors elevated VEGF levels lead to increased activity of VEGF Receptor 2 which results in abnormal blood vessel growth and tumor expansion. The receptor is also implicated in pathological angiogenesis associated with age-related macular degeneration as it promotes neovascularization that can lead to vision loss. Targeting VEGF Receptor 2 for therapeutic interventions often involves VEGF inhibitors which reduce its activity and slow disease progression.