Transcriptional regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor by estradiol and tamoxifen in breast cancer cells: a complex interplay between estrogen receptors alpha and beta.

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a potent angiogenic and prognostic factor for many tumors, including those of endocrine-responsive tissues such as the breast and uterus. Recent studies indicate that 17beta-estradiol (E(2)) modulates VEGF expression in breast and uterine cells, involving transcriptional activation through estrogen receptor (ER) alpha. However, molecular mechanisms of VEGF regulation mediated by the two ER subtypes and the potential role of ERbeta in the control of breast cancer angiogenesis have not yet been investigated.

A dynamic shift of VEGF isoforms with a transient and selective progesterone-induced expression of VEGF189 regulates angiogenesis and vascular permeability in human uterus.

A key mechanism underlying physiological angiogenesis of the human endometrium is its ability to regenerate the vascular capillary network and to perform vascular remodeling (i.e., development of spiral arteries).