VEGF-D

null VEGF-D, encoded by FIGF and originally described as a fos-induced gene product, is a proteolytically matured ligand for VEGFR2 and VEGFR3 with actions largely parallel to VEGF-C. Full-length VEGF-D must be cleaved to release the mature dimer for efficient receptor activation. It contributes to lymphatic vessel development and is highly expressed in lung, where it participates in alveolar and surfactant homeostasis. Serum VEGF-D is an established diagnostic biomarker for lymphangioleiomyomatosis, and tumor-expressed VEGF-D promotes lymphatic metastasis. Recombinant VEGF-D is used in lymphangiogenesis assays, VEGFR3-binding studies, and biomarker assay development for LAM and cancer.