Angiogenesis and the Expression of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Endometrium and Placenta
Dr. Donald S. Torry,
Ronald J. Torry,
Corresponding Author
Dr. Donald S. Torry
Department of OB/GYN, The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine, Knoxville, Tennessee 37920
Department of OB/GYN, The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine, Box U-27, 1924 Alcoa Highway, Knoxville, TN 37920.Search for more papers by this authorRonald J. Torry
Division of Experimental Pathology, Center for Reproduction and Transplantation Immunology, Methodist Hospital, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202
Search for more papers by this authorDr. Donald S. Torry,
Ronald J. Torry,
Corresponding Author
Dr. Donald S. Torry
Department of OB/GYN, The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine, Knoxville, Tennessee 37920
Department of OB/GYN, The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine, Box U-27, 1924 Alcoa Highway, Knoxville, TN 37920.Search for more papers by this authorRonald J. Torry
Division of Experimental Pathology, Center for Reproduction and Transplantation Immunology, Methodist Hospital, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202
Search for more papers by this authorAbstract
PROBLEM: The demand for increased angiogenesis and microvascular permeability during cyclical changes in the endometrium and during placentation raises the possibility that aberrations in these events could lead to suboptimal reproductive performance. However, relatively little is presently known regarding the regulation of vascular growth and permeability in these tissues.
METHOD OF STUDY: This review of current literature focuses on the expression, regulation, and potential physiological effects of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) within endometrial and placental tissue.
RESULTS: Spatial and temporal expression of VEGF as well as its restricted specificity, essential role in vasculogenesis/angiogenesis, and ability to induce vascular permeability makes VEGF an attractive regulator of vascular growth and permeability in the endometrium and placenta.
CONCLUSION: A better understanding of the production, regulation, and physiological responses of the vasculature to angiogenic growth factors may lead to new therapeutic strategies for reproductive disturbances secondary to vascular insufficiencies within the female reproductive tract.
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