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Updated: Jun 22, 2026
09:16
Investigating Angiogenesis on a Functional and Molecular Level by Leveraging the Scratch Wound Migration Assay and the Spheroid Sprouting Assay
Published on: May 31, 2024
Angiogenesis drives psoriasis pathogenesis
Regina Heidenreich1, Martin Röcken, Kamran Ghoreschi
1Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany. regina.heidenreich@med.uni-tuebingen.de
International Journal of Experimental Pathology
|July 1, 2009
Summary
Psoriasis involves immune cells and skin cell signaling. Angiogenesis, or new blood vessel growth, is a key factor in psoriasis development and a potential therapeutic target.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- Pathogenesis
Background:
- Psoriasis pathogenesis involves T helper 1 (Th1) and T helper 17 (Th17) cells.
- Aberrant keratinocyte and endothelial cell signaling also contribute to psoriasis.
- Histological hallmarks include immune cell infiltration, keratinocyte proliferation, and increased dermal vascularity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the role of pro-angiogenic factors in psoriasis development.
- To discuss angiogenesis as a potential therapeutic target for psoriasis.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on psoriasis pathogenesis and angiogenesis.
- Analysis of histological hallmarks and mediator-dependent factors in psoriatic skin.
- Consideration of new technologies and experimental models.
Main Results:
- Angiogenesis, marked by new blood vessel formation, is present in early psoriatic changes and resolves with disease clearance.
- Key angiogenic mediators such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), angiopoietins, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and IL-17 are upregulated in psoriasis.
- Keratinocytes, mast cells, and immune cells contribute to psoriasis-associated angiogenesis.
Conclusions:
- Angiogenesis is a significant factor in psoriasis pathogenesis.
- Targeting angiogenic pathways, alongside immune cells, represents a promising strategy for novel psoriasis therapies.
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