Role of fibroblast growth factor-2 in tumor angiogenesis.

Angiogenesis reflects a balance between stimulating and inhibitory factors, among which fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) and vascular endothelial gr owth factor (VECF) play a central role. FGF-2 stimulates endothelial cell g rowth and migration and enhances angiogenesis, both in vitro and in vivo. F GF-2 binds to a specific receptor (FGF R1) at the surface of endothelial ce lls. In addition to its extracellular effects, FGF-2 exerts intracellular e ffects that seem to be independent from tyrosine kinase-type receptors. FGF -2 is produced by several tumor types, including brain tumors, skin tumors, and fibrosarcomas. FGF-2 may play a pivotal role in angiogenesis in these tumors.