Sphingosine-1-phosphate signaling in vasculogenesis and angiogenesis

Blood vessels either form de novo through the process of vasculogenesis or through angiogenesis that involves the sprouting and proliferation of endothelial cells in pre-existing blood vessels. A complex interactive network of signaling cascades downstream from at least three of the nine known G-protein-coupled sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptors act as a prime effector of neovascularization that occurs in embryonic development and in association with various pathologies. This review focuses on the current knowledge of the roles of S1P signaling in vasculogenesis and angiogenesis, with particular emphasis on vascular cell adhesion and motility responses.