Endothelial-epithelial communication in polycystic kidney disease: Role of vascular endothelial growth factor signalling

Cell Signal. 2020 Aug:72:109624. doi: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2020.109624. Epub 2020 Mar 31.

Abstract

Whereas targeting the cyst epithelium and its molecular machinery has been the prevailing clinical strategy for polycystic kidney disease, the endothelium, including blood vasculature and lymphatics, is emerging as an important player in this disorder. In this Review, we provide an overview of the structural and functional alterations to blood vasculature and lymphatic vessels in the polycystic kidney. We also discuss evidence for vascular endothelial growth factor signalling, otherwise critical for endothelial cell development and maintenance, as being a fundamental molecular pathway in polycystic kidney disease and a potential therapeutic target for modulating cyst expansion.

Keywords: Blood vessel; Endothelium; Epithelium; Kidney; Lymphatics; Vascular endothelial growth factor.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Communication*
  • Endothelial Cells / pathology*
  • Epithelial Cells / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Polycystic Kidney Diseases / pathology*
  • Signal Transduction*
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / metabolism*

Substances

  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A