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Friends Turned Foes: Angiogenic Growth Factors beyond Angiogenesis
Pratiek N Matkar1,2, Ramya Ariyagunarajah3, Howard Leong-Poi4,5
1Division of Cardiology, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1W8, Canada. matkarp@smh.ca.
Biomolecules
|October 5, 2017
Summary
Angiogenesis, the creation of new blood vessels, is regulated by various factors. These key molecules also play roles in numerous biological and pathological processes beyond blood vessel formation.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Physiology
Background:
- Angiogenesis is crucial for nutrient and oxygen supply, regulated by growth factors, inhibitors, and extracellular matrix components.
- Key angiogenic molecules like vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs), fibroblast growth factors (FGFs), and angiopoietins are well-studied for their roles in blood vessel formation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted roles of angiogenic factors beyond their established function in angiogenesis.
- To explore the involvement of these molecules in a broader spectrum of biological and pathological processes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating angiogenic molecules.
- Analysis of research focusing on the molecular mechanisms and broader functions of these factors.
Main Results:
- Angiogenic factors are essential regulators of new blood vessel formation.
- Emerging evidence indicates significant roles for these factors in diverse biological and pathological contexts beyond angiogenesis.
Conclusions:
- Angiogenic factors possess functions extending beyond their canonical role in angiogenesis.
- Further research into these additional roles may reveal novel therapeutic strategies for various diseases.
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