[Angiogenesis in the female reproductive processes]

Angiogenesis or the formation of new vessels out of pre-existing capillaries is a sequence of events that is fundamental to physiology of the female reproductive tract and also pathologic processes such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Many factors include vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), angiopoietins and others involved in the regulation of angiogenesis have been identified. There are some endocrine control mechanisms, which stimulate or inhibit the angiogenesis. The studies indicate that the normal processes of folliculogenesis, ovulation and corpus luteum function in the ovary and the control of menstruation and implantation in the endometrium are profoundly dependent on the angiogenesis. The rapid, controlled and cyclical nature of angiogenesis in the female reproductive tract suggests that interference with this process should provide a novel approach to manipulation of reproductive function.