Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was recently identified as a secreted, direct-acting mitogen specific for vascular endothelial cells and capable of stimulating angiogenesis in vivo. Molecular cloning revealed multiple forms of VEGF, apparently arising from alternative splicing of its RNA transcript. VEGF and TGF-beta1 are potent angiogenesis inducers with opposing effects on endothelial cells. TGF-beta1 induces apoptosis; VEGF protects endothelial cells from apoptosis. We found that TGF-beta1 promotes endothelial cell expression of FGF-2, which up-regulates VEGF synthesis. Inhibition of VEGF signaling through VEGF receptor 2 (flk-1) abrogates TGF-beta1-induced apoptosis and p38(MAPK) activation. This finding illustrates an unexpected role of VEGF and indicates that VEGF can be pharmacologically converted into an apoptotic factor, a novel approach to antiangiogenesis therapy.
Applications:
Suitable for use in ELISA, Western Blot, Immunoprecipitation, Immunofluorescence, Immunocytochemistry and Immunohistochemistry. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilutions:
Western Blot: 0.5-2ug/mL. Detects a band at ~38-44kD.
ELISA: 1:50-1:200
Immunocytochemistry: 1:50-1:200
Immunofluorescence: 1:50-1:200
Immunohistochemistry (FFPE): Good results have been reported on human, bovine and pocine paraffin sections after microwave treatment and using Tris-HCl buffer, pH 10. Citrate buffer not recommended.
Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher.
Positive Control:
Recombinant human VEGF protein
Storage and Stability:
May be stored at 4 degrees C for short-term only. Aliquot to avoid repeated freezing and thawing. Store at -20 degrees C. Aliquots are stable for 12 months. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap.