Model depicting the role of EGFL7 in angiogenesis and stem cell behavior. (A-B) EGFL7 is a secreted protein that is expressed by endothelial cells, including the stalk and tip cells of sprouting vessels. Once secreted, EGFL7 binds to the ECM and shows overlapping expression with fibronectin and collagen type IV. (A) EGFL7 controls endothelial cell sprouting, migration, and proliferation. (B). EGFL7 also signals to the ECM and modulates its rigidity by inhibiting lysyl oxidase (LOX)–mediated conversion of tropoelastin into elastin. (C) EGFL7 promotes embryonic stem cell proliferation and inhibits proliferation of adult neuronal stem cells.