vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 binding

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Binding to a vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1. [GOC:st]

Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (VEGFR1) binding is a crucial step in the regulation of angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels. VEGFR1, also known as Flt-1, is a transmembrane receptor tyrosine kinase that binds to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) with high affinity. Upon binding of VEGF, VEGFR1 undergoes a conformational change that activates its intrinsic tyrosine kinase activity. This activation triggers a signaling cascade that leads to a variety of cellular responses, including:

* **Cell proliferation:** VEGFR1 signaling promotes the growth and division of endothelial cells, the cells that line blood vessels. This is essential for the formation of new blood vessels.
* **Cell migration:** VEGFR1 signaling also stimulates the movement of endothelial cells towards the site of angiogenesis. This allows for the formation of new blood vessels in response to specific stimuli, such as wound healing or tumor growth.
* **Cell survival:** VEGFR1 signaling can also protect endothelial cells from apoptosis (programmed cell death). This is important for maintaining the integrity of existing blood vessels and for promoting angiogenesis.

The binding of VEGF to VEGFR1 is highly regulated. In addition to VEGF, other factors, such as angiopoietins and PDGF, can also bind to VEGFR1 and modulate its signaling activity. Furthermore, the expression of VEGFR1 itself is tightly controlled, ensuring that angiogenesis occurs only when and where it is needed.

The molecular function of VEGFR1 binding plays a critical role in a variety of physiological and pathological processes, including:

* **Embryonic development:** VEGF and VEGFR1 signaling are essential for the development of the vascular system during embryogenesis.
* **Wound healing:** Angiogenesis is essential for the repair of damaged tissues, such as wounds and burns.
* **Tumor growth and metastasis:** Cancer cells often stimulate angiogenesis to provide themselves with oxygen and nutrients.
* **Inflammation:** VEGF and VEGFR1 signaling are involved in the recruitment of immune cells to sites of inflammation.

Disruptions in VEGFR1 signaling can lead to a variety of diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetic retinopathy. The development of drugs that target VEGFR1 is a major area of research in drug discovery.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (5)