What is one effect of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in diabetic retinopathy?

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays a significant role in diabetic retinopathy, particularly through its promotion of angiogenesis, which is the formation of new blood vessels. In the context of diabetic retinopathy, elevated levels of VEGF are often associated with hypoxia or inadequate blood supply to the retina due to damaged vasculature resulting from diabetes. When VEGF is secreted, it stimulates endothelial cells to proliferate and form new blood vessels, a process aimed at compensating for the poor oxygen and nutrient delivery to retinal tissues.

While this may initially seem beneficial, the new vessels formed are often fragile and can lead to complications such as leakage, bleeding, and further damage to the retinal structure, contributing to vision loss. This underscores the dual role of VEGF in promoting necessary vascularization while also playing a part in pathological conditions when dysregulated.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary role of VEGF in this condition. While increased blood flow may occur as a result of new vessel formation, it’s not the direct effect of VEGF itself. Additionally, VEGF is associated with retinal swelling and does not stabilize existing blood vessels, making it clear why the promotion of new blood vessels is the most relevant effect of VEG