Intussusceptive angiogenesis and its counterpart intussusceptive lymphangiogenesis

Area of Science:

• Vascular Biology
• Angiogenesis Research
• Lymphatic System Development

Background:

• Intussusceptive angiogenesis (IA) is a known mechanism for blood vessel growth, complementing sprouting angiogenesis (SA).
• Intussusceptive lymphangiogenesis (IL) is less understood but shares similar intussusceptive principles.
• Both IA and IL involve vessel splitting through transluminal pillar formation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the morphofunctional characteristics of IA and IL.
• To elucidate the mechanisms, incidence, and implications of intussusception in both blood and lymphatic vessels.
• To explore the role of intussusception in vascular pathologies and tumor morphogenesis.

Main Methods:

• Review and synthesis of existing literature on intussusceptive angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis.
• Analysis of historical contributions to the understanding of vessel intussusception.
• Examination of pathological conditions associated with IA and IL.
• Discussion of the structural and molecular factors influencing intussusception.

Main Results:

• Intussusception, characterized by pillar formation, is a shared mechanism for blood and lymphatic vessel expansion and remodeling.
• IA and IL occur in both normal physiological settings and various pathological conditions, including vascular malformations and tumors.
• Detailed characteristics of pillar formation, including endothelial and connective tissue components, and resulting vascular structures are described.
• Hemodynamic and molecular factors like VEGF, PDGF BB, and hypoxia significantly influence intussusceptive processes.

Conclusions:

• IA and IL are distinct yet complementary processes crucial for vascular development and adaptation.
• Understanding intussusception is vital for comprehending the pathogenesis of numerous vascular diseases and tumors.
• Further research into IL is warranted given its potential significance in lymphatic system dynamics.