Development of collateral vessels: A new paradigm in CAM angiogenesis model

The chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay is one of the most widely used models to study angiogenesis. In this study, collateral vessel development is reported in CAM assay useful in analysis of angiogenesis. Four days old white Leghorn fertilized chicken eggs were inoculated with vehicle, standard or test angiogenesis inhibitor using standard protocol. Central vessel growth was seen tapering down and collateral vessels were developed from the lower side of the chorioallantoic membrane moving upward in 12 days old standard or test treated CAMs. In the absence of the central vessel, collateral blood supply helped in survival of embryos. Hence, development of collateral vessels was used for ranking of blood vessels and angiogenesis in addition to well-known standard parameters related to central vessel. The finding could differentiate molecules inhibiting angiogenesis with or without collateralization which is crucial in anti-angiogenic therapy used for cardiovascular diseases and cancer. This study proposes a new avenue to distinguish pro-angiogenic molecules from anti-angiogenic ones as well as anti-angiogenic molecules which may or may not support alternative vascularization pathway that would have great impact on future angiogenic and anti-angiogenic therapy.