Angiogenesis.

Abstract

Regulation of Angiogenesis in Health and DiseaseAngiogenesis is a fundamental process by which new blood vessels are formed (1).It is essential in reproduction, development, and wound repair.Under these conditions, angiogenesis is highly regulated, i.e. turned on for brief periods (days) and then completely inhibited.However, many diseases are driven by persistent unregulated angiogenesis.In arthritis, new capillary blood vessels invade the joint and destroy cartilage.In diabetes, new capillaries in the retina invade the vitreous, bleed, and cause blindness (2).Ocular neovascularization is the most common cause of blindness and dominates approximately 20-eye diseases.Tumor growth and metastasis are angiogenesis-dependent (3, 4).A tumor must continuously stimulate the growth of new capillar