The role of vascular endothelial growth factor in ossification

Int J Oral Sci. 2012 Jun;4(2):64-8. doi: 10.1038/ijos.2012.33.

Abstract

Osteogenesis and angiogenesis are two closely correlated processes during bone growth, development, remodelling and repair.Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is an essential mediator during the process of angiogenesis. Based on an extensive literature search, which was carried out using the PubMed database and the keywords of osteogenesis, VEGF, endochondral ossification and intramembranous ossification, this manuscript reviews the role of VEGF in ossification, with emphasis on its effect in endochondral and intramembranous ossification. Osteogenesis and angiogenesis are closely correlated processes. VEGF acts as an essential mediator during these processes. It not only functions in bone angiogenesis but also in various aspects of bone development.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bone Remodeling / physiology
  • Bone and Bones / cytology
  • Bone and Bones / physiology
  • Calcification, Physiologic / physiology*
  • Cartilage / cytology
  • Cartilage / physiology
  • Humans
  • Neovascularization, Physiologic / physiology*
  • Osteoclasts / physiology*
  • Osteogenesis / physiology*
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / physiology*

Substances

  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A