VEGF-C

VEGF-C is the master regulator of lymphangiogenesis. Secreted as a precursor that binds only VEGFR3, it gains VEGFR2-binding capacity after stepwise proteolytic maturation, coupling lymphatic growth with blood-vascular responses. VEGF-C expression in adult tissues centers on lymphatic endothelium-associated sites, and tumor-derived VEGF-C drives lymphatic vessel formation and nodal metastasis. It is also required for lymphatic development, immune-cell trafficking, and, notably, blood-pressure regulation via lymphatic endothelial signaling. Recombinant VEGF-C protein, supplied as mature or pro-form, supports lymphatic endothelial cell culture, VEGFR3 phosphorylation assays, and screening of anti-lymphangiogenic therapeutics.