Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) upregulates BCL-2 and inhibits apoptosis in human and murine mammary adenocarcinoma cells
2001

VEGF and Its Role in Cancer Cell Survival

publication

Author Information

Author(s): Pidgeon G P, Barr M P, Harmey J H, Foley D A, Bouchier-Hayes D J

Primary Institution: Department of Surgery, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Beaumont Hospital, Beaumont, Dublin 9, Ireland

Hypothesis

VEGF acts as a survival factor for tumor cells by upregulating Bcl-2 and inhibiting apoptosis.

Conclusion

VEGF not only promotes angiogenesis but also helps cancer cells survive by preventing apoptosis.

Supporting Evidence

  • VEGF upregulated Bcl-2 expression in both murine and human cancer cell lines.
  • Inhibition of VEGF with anti-VEGF antibodies reduced Bcl-2 expression.
  • Reduced Bcl-2 expression was associated with increased apoptosis in tumor cells.

Takeaway

VEGF is like a superhero for cancer cells, helping them stay alive and grow by stopping them from dying.

Methodology

The study examined the effects of VEGF on Bcl-2 expression and apoptosis in murine and human mammary carcinoma cell lines.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1054/bjoc.2001.1876

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