VEGF binds to its receptors, VEGFR-1, VEGFR-2, and VEGFR-3, which are tyrosine kinase receptors present on the surface of endothelial cells. This binding activates intracellular signaling pathways such as the PI3K/Akt and MAPK pathways, leading to endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and increased vascular permeability. Histological techniques can visualize these processes by staining for VEGF and its receptors in tissue samples.
