Role of mast cells in angiogenesis

Abstract

Angiogenesis is a process that leads to the development of a new vascular network starting from pre-existing capillaries and venules. Mast cells (MCs) are tissue resident cells which actively participate in the angiogenic scenario, playing an important role in normal angiogenesis, angiogenesis that accompanies inflammation and tumour-associated angiogenesis. This chapter will focus on the specific role of MCs in the different types of angiogenic processes.