Angiogenesis in cutaneous disease: part II

Vivian Laquer1, Van Hoang, Amy Nguyen

  • 1Columbia University College of Physicians, New York, New York, USA.

Abstract

Insights

This review explores angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, in skin diseases. Targeting this process with antiangiogenic agents shows promise for treating various dermatologic conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Vascular Biology

Background:

  • Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, plays a critical role in the development of various cutaneous diseases.
  • Scientific evidence highlights its involvement in tumor development and other skin disorders.
  • The process involves complex interactions of angiogenic growth factors and inhibitors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of angiogenesis in specific cutaneous diseases.
  • To identify scenarios where antiangiogenic therapy can complement traditional treatments.
  • To guide the use of angiogenic-mediating agents in dermatologic practice.

Main Methods:

  • This is a review article, synthesizing existing scientific evidence.
  • It focuses on the role of angiogenic factors and their inhibitors in skin conditions.
  • It examines the application and efficacy of antiangiogenic agents in dermatology.

Main Results:

  • Angiogenesis is implicated in the pathogenesis of numerous skin diseases, including tumors.
  • Many angiogenic factors and inhibitors represent potential targets for pharmacological intervention.
  • Antiangiogenic agents have demonstrated promising efficacy in treating dermatologic conditions.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding angiogenesis is crucial for managing specific cutaneous diseases.
  • Antiangiogenic therapies offer a valuable new approach for dermatologic treatment.
  • Further research into angiogenic pathways may yield novel therapeutic strategies.

Related Concept Videos

Mechanism of Angiogenesis01:10

Mechanism of Angiogenesis

Blood vessel formation starts early during embryonic development, around day 7. In the extraembryonic yolk sac, mesodermal precursor cells called hemangioblast proliferate and differentiate into angioblast. Angioblasts express vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 or VEGFR2, which binds VEGF-A, a proangiogenic factor, guiding blood vessel formation. VEGF signaling promotes angioblasts to form a blood island in the developing embryo. Angioblasts further differentiate, giving rise to...
Regulation of Angiogenesis and Blood Supply01:24

Regulation of Angiogenesis and Blood Supply

Rapidly dividing tumors, embryos, and wounded tissues require more oxygen than usual, lowering the oxygen concentration in the blood. At low oxygen or hypoxic conditions, an oxygen-sensitive transcription factor called the hypoxia-inducible factor 1 or HIF1 is activated. HIF1 is a dimeric protein of alpha (ɑ) and beta (β) subunits.  Under optimal oxygen conditions, HIF1β is present in the nucleus while HIF1ɑ remains in the cytosol. HIF1ɑ is hydroxylated by prolyl hydroxylase and factor...
Skin Diseases and Disorders01:23

Skin Diseases and Disorders

Skin is the first line of defense and encounters a variety of microbes. Some pathogenic strains are often the cause of a broad range of infections of the skin and other body systems. These conditions can affect people of all ages and may have different causes, including genetic factors, infections, autoimmune reactions, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices.
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
Skin Cancer01:30

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when there is an abnormal growth of skin cells, usually triggered by damage to the DNA within the skin cells. It is primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, and its incidence continues to rise.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...