Secreted glycoprotein that is involved in various physiological processes, such as angiogenesis, regulation of the immune response, cell proliferation and differentiation. Plays a role in the development of the central nervous system, skeletal system, lungs, and ureter. Promotes endothelial cell survival, migration and differentiation into network structures in an AKT-dependent manner. Also promotes survival of cardiac myocytes. Initiates various signaling cascades by activating different receptors on the cell surface such as DIP2A, TLR4 or BMP receptors.