Year: 2025
Type: review
Abstract: Aging is a well-known, complex physiological process characterized by progressive functional decline and increased susceptibility to disease, particularly in the cardiovascular and nervous systems. While genetic and environmental factors can shape its advancement, molecular regulators such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and dopamine signaling have emerged as critical factors in maintaining vascular and neural health. VEGF promotes angiogenesis and tissue repair, while dopamine, primarily recognized for its neuromodulatory roles, regulates vascular tone and appears to modulate VEGF activity. Despite substantial research on their roles in cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, little is known about how VEGF and dopamine interact in the aging process, particularly in healthy versus unhealthy aging contexts. This review describes existing evidence on the independent and potentially complementary roles of VEGF and dopamine in aging, emphasizing their influence on maintaining or improving neurovascular health. It also explores how lifestyle interventions may be beneficial in modulating VEGF and dopamine signaling pathways in the aging population. By addressing the current knowledge gap surrounding VEGF-dopamine crosstalk, this review highlights the need for further investigation into their combined effects and targeting molecular interaction to unlock new research avenues for innovative strategies for healthy aging and the potential treatment of age-related diseases.
Source: Cells
Authors: Melanie B. Thompson, Sanjay P. Tirupattur, Nandini Vishwakarma, Laxmansa C. Katwa
Institution: East Carolina University
Language: English
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,258
OpenAlex ID: W4412845470