Advanced
Technical
IVT
angiogenesis
The physiological process of new blood vessel formation from existing vasculature.
Full Definition
Angiogenesis refers to the complex biological process by which new blood vessels develop from pre-existing vascular networks. This process is essential for normal growth, wound healing, and tissue repair, but it also plays a crucial role in pathological conditions including cancer progression and diabetic retinopathy. The process involves endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and tube formation, regulated by various growth factors and signaling pathways. Understanding angiogenesis is critical for developing therapeutic interventions in both cardiovascular disease and oncology.
In Context
- "Tumor angiogenesis is a critical factor in cancer metastasis and treatment resistance." — Oncology research paper
- "Therapeutic angiogenesis represents a promising approach for treating ischemic cardiovascular disease." — Clinical trial protocol
Also known as
neovascularization
blood vessel formation
Contrasted with
angiogenesis inhibition
vessel regression
Don't confuse with
vasculogenesis
arteriogenesis