The role of antioxidants in preventing vascular disease remains controversial. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A) is important for endothelial and monocyte function. This study investigated the negative effects of smoking on monocyte migratory responsiveness to VEGF-A and the usefulness of vitamin C to prevent smoking-induced monocyte dysfunction.
Department of Cardiology, University of Maastricht, Cardiovascular Research Institute of Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, NL-6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands.