Eph receptors and their ligands comprise the largest family of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs)

which take part in various physiological and pathological processes. Eph-ephrin interactions mediate distinct forward and reverse signal pathway

especially the bi-directional signals of EphB4-ephrinB2 have attracted lots of attention. Studies on their function in vascular system may bring the scientific research and clinical treatment to a new era for the issue of angiogenesis. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) maintains human health by promoting blood circulation

removing blood stasis

eliminating phlegm

regulating and reinforcing the vital energy. TCM may also have angiogenic and anti-angiogenic effects. In recent years

with the evidences of bi-directional signals of EphB4-ephrinb2 and the application of TCM

scientists pay great attention on how TCM regulates the signal mechanism during the process of angiogenesis. Research has already reported that Xuefu Zhuyu decoction can up-regulate ephrinB2’ gene expression during angiogenesis of endothelial cell

ECV304. On the basis of the relevant research

we believe TCM plays an important role in regulating angiogenic signals

especially

EphB4-ephrinB2.