Angiogenesis in Cancer

Angiogenesis is the generation of new blood vessels from pre-existing vasculature. It is a normal process in growth and development, which is required for the formation of arteries, veins, and capillaries in the embryo. In adults, proliferation of new blood vessels is essential for the repair or regeneration of tissue during wound healing. Angiogenesis in normal tissues is a carefully regulated process, coordinated by pro- and antiangiogenic factors to produce well-structured uniform vasculature.

Angiogenesis is also a hallmark of cancer and plays a key role in enabling tumor growth, progression, and metastasis. Tumor angiogenesis can differ significantly from physiological angiogenesis, producing poorly formed blood vessels with aberrant blood flow and differing permeability.

This poster summarizes the mechanisms of angiogenesis in cancer and highlights some of the potential therapeutic targets.