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In the Industry Vocabulary Test
angiogenesis
Pronunciation: AN-jee-oh-JEN-eh-sis
The formation of new blood vessels that tumors stimulate to support their growth.
Full Definition
Angiogenesis is the physiological process of forming new blood vessels from pre-existing ones. In cancer, tumors hijack this process to create their own blood supply, enabling continued growth and metastasis. Understanding angiogenesis has led to the development of anti-angiogenic therapies that aim to starve tumors by cutting off their blood supply. This process is regulated by various growth factors and is a critical target for cancer treatment.
In Context
- "The tumor's angiogenesis was successfully inhibited by bevacizumab treatment." — Research publication
- "Anti-angiogenic therapy targets the tumor's ability to stimulate new blood vessel formation." — Treatment protocol
Also known as
neovascularization
blood vessel formation
Contrasted with
anti-angiogenesis
Don't confuse with
angiography
angioplasty