What purpose does VEGF serve in tendon biology?

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) plays a crucial role in promoting vascularization, or the formation of new blood vessels, within tissues, including tendons. In tendon biology, adequate vascularization is vital for supplying nutrients and oxygen to the cells, facilitating tissue repair and regeneration. This process is especially important in instances of tendon injuries, where the demand for nutrients is heightened due to the need for healing and new tissue formation.

By promoting angiogenesis, VEGF ensures that the repaired or regenerated tendon has sufficient blood supply, which is necessary for its long-term health and function. Enhanced vascularization can lead to improved cell survival, migration, and overall tissue healing. This function of VEGF is central to its role in tendon biology, distinguishing it from other factors that may promote cell proliferation or recruitment but do not directly contribute to vascular development.