Research Progress on Angiogenesis and Involution Mechanisms of Infantile Hemangioma and Its Regulation by Active...

Infantile hemangioma (IH) is the most common benign vascular tumor of infancy, characterized by a unique life cycle encompassing a rapid proliferative phase followed by spontaneous involution. Although the majority of cases exhibit a favorable prognosis, a small subset may be complicated by severe sequelae that adversely affect the physical and mental health of affected infants. Accumulating evidence indicates that the pathogenesis of IH involves a dynamic imbalance between angiogenesis and involution, which is tightly governed by the multilineage differentiation of hemangioma stem cells, core signaling pathway networks, and epigenetic regulation mediated by non-coding RNAs. A deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying angiogenesis and involution will provide novel insights into both the fundamental biology and clinical management of IH. Furthermore, multiple bioactive constituents of the traditional Chinese medicine Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen) have demonstrated anti-angiogenic and pro-involution potential in tumor and ischemia models. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in the mechanistic understanding of IH angiogenesis and involution, and critically discusses the regulatory effects of Danshen active components on these processes, with the aim of offering a theoretical foundation for elucidating IH pathogenesis and facilitating the development of novel therapeutic agents.