[Angiogenesis]

Angiogenesis refers to a process of new vessel formation originated from pre-existent vessels. This mechanisms requires a series of complex events that include pro-angiogenic and anti-angiogenic molecules. Among the angiogenic factors studied are the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) and the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Recently, great efforts have been made to apply these factors to the treatment of advanced and chronic ischemic heart disease and for peripheral arterial disease. The present paper reviews angiogenic mechanisms as well as experimental and clinical studies reported in the literature.