Protective effects of vascular endothelial growth factor on cerebral ischemia

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is an endothelial cell-specific mitogen. Studies have shown that VEGF is closely associated with ischemic stroke, and this makes it possible to intervene in ischemic stroke from the level of VEGF and its receptor. This article reviews the biological effect of VEGF and its receptor, mechanism of action involving in various stages of ischemic stroke, and the therapeutic prospect in ischem ic stroke. Key words: Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors; Stroke; Brain Ischemia; Brain Edema; Neovascularization, Physiologic; Neurogenesis; Neuroprotective Agents