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Updated: May 30, 2026
In vivo Imaging of Tumor Angiogenesis using Fluorescence Confocal Videomicroscopy
Published on: September 11, 2013
Tumor blood vessel visualization
Jeannine Missbach-Guentner1, Julia Hunia, Frauke Alves
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany. j.missbach@med.uni-goettingen.de
Abstract:
Significant advances have been made in understanding the role of tumor angiogenesis and its influence on tumor progression in cancer. Based on this knowledge, a series of inhibitors of angiogenesis have been developed and evaluated in preclinical and clinical trials. Since detailed information of tumor progression in response to therapy is important to assess the efficacy of anti-tumor treatment in vivo, noninvasive imaging techniques emerge more and more as important tools to monitor alterations in tumor growth and vessel recruitment, as well as metastatic spread over time. So far, remarkable efforts have been made to improve the technical capability of these imaging modalities based on better resolution, as well as to implement multimodal approaches combining molecular with anatomical information. Advanced imaging techniques not only allow the detection and monitoring of tumor development, but also facilitate a broad understanding of the cellular and molecular events that propagate tumor angiogenesis, as well as those occurring in response to therapy. This review provides an overview of different imaging techniques in preclinical settings of oncological research and discusses their potential impact on clinical translation. Imaging modalities will be presented that have been implemented to address key biological issues by exploring tumor angiogenic processes and evaluating antiangiogenic therapy.
Insights
Advanced imaging techniques are crucial for monitoring tumor progression and evaluating anti-angiogenic therapies in cancer research. These noninvasive methods track tumor growth, vessel recruitment, and metastasis, aiding treatment assessment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medical Imaging
- Cancer Biology
Background:
- Tumor angiogenesis significantly influences cancer progression.
- Anti-angiogenic therapies have been developed based on this understanding.
- Monitoring tumor response to therapy in vivo is critical for treatment efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review noninvasive imaging techniques for monitoring tumor growth and angiogenesis.
- To discuss the role of advanced imaging in understanding tumor progression and therapy response.
- To explore the clinical translation potential of preclinical imaging modalities.
Main Methods:
- Review of various imaging techniques used in preclinical cancer research.
- Discussion of multimodal approaches combining molecular and anatomical information.
- Evaluation of imaging modalities for studying tumor angiogenesis and anti-angiogenic therapy.
Main Results:
- Noninvasive imaging techniques are vital for tracking tumor development, angiogenesis, and metastasis.
- Improvements in resolution and multimodal approaches enhance imaging capabilities.
- Advanced imaging provides insights into cellular and molecular events in tumor angiogenesis and therapy response.
Conclusions:
- Imaging techniques are essential tools for assessing anti-tumor treatment efficacy.
- Continued development of imaging modalities will impact clinical translation in oncology.
- This review highlights the application of imaging in understanding angiogenesis and guiding anti-angiogenic therapy.
