The Matrix Reloaded: New Insights from Type IV Collagen Derived Endogenous Angiogenesis Inhibitors and their Mechanism of Action

Abstract

Angiogenesis, the process of neovascularization fro m parent blood vessels, is a prerequisite for many physiologi- cal and pathological conditions that is regulated b y a balance between the levels of endogenous angiog enic stimu- lators and matrix reloaded angiogenic regulators. S everal non-collagenous carboxy terminal end domains in chains of type IV collagen matrix reloaded molecule s selectively interact with proliferating endotheli al cells by binding to distinct integrins and regulate intracel lular signaling and inhibit angiogenesis. This revi ew will focus on the current understanding of extra cellular matrix type IV collagen reloaded endogenous angiogenesis i nhibitors and their mechanism of action.