VEGFA and neoplasm: Role in angiogenesis through phosphorylation of SGK1 target NDRG1 (also a transcriptional target of YAP/TAZ), which modulates NF-κB signaling and expression of VEGF. Activated NDRG1 induces expression of angiogenic CXC cytokines, such as IL-8. High microvessel density in tumors correlates with NDRG1 nuclear activity. Knockdown of SGK1/NDRG1 reduced tumor angiogenesis.