The Effect of Physical Activity on VEGF and HIF-1 Signaling

Context: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the context of research into the physiological roles of VEGF and the most important potential mechanisms that may lead to a temporary decrease in serum VEGF, as well as to perform a desirable conclusion and provide more relevant data from previous research. Methods: In this study, articles were searched in specialized databases and 40 related articles were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Then the effect of physical activity on VEGF and HIF-1 signaling was investigated. Results: Exercise and physical activity by stimulating and activating VEGF and HIF-1 signals may induce generating new arteries and angiogenesis. Conclusions: The present study showed that physical activity increases capillary density by increasing the level of diffusion, increasing the time of exchange between blood and tissue, and decreasing the oxygen diffusion distance. As a result, capillary dilatation and capacity increase and ultimately it improves athletes’ performance.