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Macrophages and angiogenesis
C Sunderkötter1, K Steinbrink, M Goebeler
1Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Germany.
Abstract:
Macrophages are supposed to play a key role in inflammatory and tumor angiogenesis. Their importance derives from (1) their ubiquitous presence in normal and especially inflamed tissues, (2) their potential to become activated in response to appropriate stimuli, and (3) their repertoire of secretory products. By release of proteases, growth factors (bFGF, GM-CSF, TGF-alpha, IGF-I, PDGF, VEGF/VPF, TGF-beta), and other monokines (IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-alpha, substance P, prostaglandins, interferons, thrombospondin 1), activated macrophages have the capability to influence each phase of the angiogenic process, such as alterations of the local extracellular matrix, induction of endothelial cells to migrate or proliferate, and inhibition of vascular growth with formation of differentiated capillaries. This review describes macrophage physiology and the influence of macrophage secretory products on the different phases of angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo.
Insights
Macrophages are crucial for inflammatory and tumor angiogenesis, influencing blood vessel growth through their diverse secretory products. This review details their physiological roles and impact on angiogenesis phases.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Angiogenesis Research
Background:
- Macrophages are prevalent in tissues and can be activated by stimuli.
- Activated macrophages secrete a wide range of factors influencing tissue processes.
- These factors are critical in both normal and pathological angiogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review macrophage physiology.
- To explore the influence of macrophage secretory products on angiogenesis.
- To examine these effects in both in vitro and in vivo models.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of macrophage function in angiogenesis.
- Analysis of macrophage secretory products including growth factors and monokines.
- Examination of effects on extracellular matrix, endothelial cell behavior, and vascular development.
Main Results:
- Macrophages significantly impact all stages of angiogenesis.
- Secretory products like VEGF/VPF and bFGF promote vascular growth.
- Other factors can modulate extracellular matrix and endothelial cell responses.
Conclusions:
- Macrophages are key regulators of inflammatory and tumor angiogenesis.
- Their diverse secretory products orchestrate complex angiogenic processes.
- Understanding macrophage roles is vital for therapeutic strategies targeting angiogenesis.