Molecular Mechanism of Physical Exercise Enhances Angiogenesis Through Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Expression: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine how exercise affects human VEGF levels through a review of molecular mechanisms. Methods: This study used a systematic review method, where we searched for original articles in Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Science Direct for analysis. Papers on VEGF and physical activity from 2020–2025 were searched. Furthermore, the sample included men and women aged 20 to 80 years. After a comprehensive review and observation, ten publications that met the inclusion criteria were analyzed. Ten studies found that exercise substantially increased VEGF expression. Results: This comprehensive study found that regular exercise significantly increased VEGF expression, which promotes angiogenesis. Activation of the HIF-1α pathway, stimulation of tissue hypoxia, and enhancement of signal transduction associated with blood vessel development are key molecular mechanisms involved. Conclusions: These results indicate that exercise has functional benefits and a significant impact on the molecular regulation of new blood vessel production, which aids physiological adaptation in a number of diseases, such as metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. By modifying VEGF expression, exercise is a successful non-pharmacological strategy to improve blood vessel health, according to the study.