Does vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) play a role in the pathogenesis of minimal change disease?

Abstract

Background. Minimal change disease (MCD) is one of the major causes of nephrotic syndrome both in children and adults. The pathogenesis of this condition is not clear and it has been suggested that a plasma permeability factor may play a role. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), also known as vascular permeability factor, has been thought to be one the factors involved. The aim of this study was thus to investigate the role of VEGF in the pathogenesis of MCD. Methods. The expression of the gene for VEGF and VEGF receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) was estimated using in situ hybridization in renal biopsy specimens taken from patients with nephrotic syndrome and diagnosed histologically as MCD. The r..