The role of angiogenesis in physiological and pathological conditions

Abstract

The angiogenesis, that is, the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing small vessels, is the condition of the organism that is vascularized during adulthood. Angiogenesis is involved in the events of new vessel formation, reproduction, development, and repair. In addition to embryogenesis and wound healing, it is also important for tumor growth in many diseases that present themselves with new vessel formation, such of diabetic retinopathy, hemangiomas, psoriasis and arthritis. By stimulating connective tissue cells, tumor cells cause a number of angiogenesis molecules (such as vascular endothelial growth factor and fibroblast growth factor, etc.) to come out into the open. Although the mechanisms of action of angiogenesis and inhibitors are not fully understood, improved angiogenesis may provide new opportunities for cancer treatment or wound healing.