Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Dynamics in Diabetic Nephropathy
Summary
Diabetic nephropathy is a leading cause of kidney failure worldwide, marked by progressive damage to the glomerular microvasculature under chronic hyperglycaemia. Central to this process is vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a key regulator of endothelial cell survival, permeability and angiogenesis. In early disease, podocyte-derived VEGF-A becomes overexpressed, driving abnormal capillary growth, increased glomerular filtration and albuminuria. As nephropathy advances, a paradoxical drop in local VEGF availability contributes to endothelial cell loss, capillary rarefaction and fibrotic remodelling. The dynamic balance of VEGF signalling is further modulated by its receptors (VEGFR1 and VEGFR2), cross-talk with nitric oxide pathways and interactions with podocytes and mesangial cells. These complex interdependencies not only underpin the transition from hyperfiltration to glomerulosclerosis but also offer therapeutic targets for restoring vascular homeostasis and preserving renal function.
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Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Dynamics in Diabetic Nephropathy publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in vascular endothelial growth factor dynamics in diabetic nephropathy across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF-A): A secreted protein that stimulates formation and permeability of blood vessels in the glomerulus.
VEGFR2: The principal tyrosine kinase receptor mediating VEGF-A signalling in endothelial cells, driving proliferation and permeability.
Albuminuria: The excretion of albumin in urine, indicative of glomerular filtration barrier disruption.
Endothelial dysfunction: Impaired endothelial cell function characterised by reduced vasodilation, increased permeability and pro-inflammatory activation.
References
- Suramin Affects the Renal VEGF-A/VEGFR Axis in Short-Term Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes. Pharmaceuticals (2023).
- Serum VEGF as a predictive marker of glycemic control and diabetic nephropathy in Chinese older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Frontiers in Endocrinology (2023).
- Mechanistic Pathogenesis of Endothelial Dysfunction in Diabetic Nephropathy and Retinopathy. Frontiers in Endocrinology (2022).
- Uncoupling of VEGF with Endothelial NO as a Potential Mechanism for Abnormal Angiogenesis in the Diabetic Nephropathy. Journal of Diabetes Research (2013).
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