vascular endothelial growth factor
noun
: a protein that is a major factor in promoting the growth of new blood vessels
The team found that neurons and accessory cells called Schwann cells make a molecule called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which is found in a variety of tissues and has been shown to spur blood vessels to sprout and grow.—
Greg Miller, Science
—abbreviation VEGF
Greg Miller, ScienceCite this Entry
“Vascular endothelial growth factor.” Merriam-Webster.com Medical Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/vascular%20endothelial%20growth%20factor. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.
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