Interactions between VEGFR and Notch signaling pathways in endothelial and neural cells

Cell Mol Life Sci. 2013 May;70(10):1779-92. doi: 10.1007/s00018-013-1312-6. Epub 2013 Mar 12.

Abstract

Notch cell interaction mechanism governs cell fate decisions in many different cell contexts throughout the lifetime of all Metazoan species. It links the fate of one cell to that of its neighbors through cell-to-cell contacts, and binding of Notch receptors expressed on one cell to their membrane bound ligands on an adjacent cell. Environmental cues, such as growth factors and extracellular matrix molecules, superimpose a dynamic regulation on this canonical Notch signaling pathway. In this review, we will focus on Notch signaling in the vertebrate vascular and nervous systems and examine its role in angiogenesis, neurogenesis, and neurovascular interactions. We will also highlight the molecular relationships of the Notch pathway with vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and their high-affinity tyrosine kinase VEGF receptors, key regulators of both angiogenesis and neurogenesis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Endothelial Cells / cytology
  • Endothelial Cells / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / metabolism
  • Neurogenesis
  • Neurons / cytology
  • Neurons / metabolism*
  • Receptors, Notch / metabolism*
  • Receptors, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor / metabolism*
  • Signal Transduction
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors / metabolism

Substances

  • Receptors, Notch
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors
  • Receptors, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor