Physiology of angiogenesis.
Angiogenesis is a key prerequisite for growth in all vertebrate embryos and in many tumors. Rapid growth requires efficient transport of oxygen and metabolites. Hence, for a better understanding of tissue growth, biophysical properties of vascular systems, in addition to their molecular mechanisms, need to be investigated. The purpose of this article is twofold: (1) to discuss the biophysics of growing and perfused vascular systems in general, emphasizing non-sprouting angiogenesis and remodeling of vascular plexuses; and (2) to report on cellular details of sprouting angiogenesis in the initially non-perfused embryonic brain and spinal cord. It is concluded that (1) evolutionary optimization of the circulatory system corresponds to highly conserved vascular patterns and angiogenetic mechanisms; (2) deterministic and random processes contribute to both extraembryonic and central nervous system vascularization; (3) endothelial cells interact with a variety of periendothelial cells during angiogenesis and remodeling; and that (4) mathematical models integrating molecular, morphological and biophysical expertise improve our understanding of normal and pathological angiogenesis and account for allometric relations.
Kurz
H
H
Institute of Anatomy II, University of Freiburg, Germany. kurzhaym@uni-freiburg.de
D000482:Allantois / Q000098:blood supply; D000818:Animals; D002319:Cardiovascular System / Q000196:embryology; D019070:Cell Lineage; D002465:Cell Movement; D002490:Central Nervous System / Q000098:blood supply / Q000196:embryology; D002823:Chorion / Q000098:blood supply; D004625:Embryo, Nonmammalian / Q000098:blood supply; D005314:Embryonic and Fetal Development; D004730:Endothelium, Vascular / Q000166:cytology; D005318:Fetal Heart / Q000254:growth & development; D006439:Hemodynamics; D018056:Hemorheology; D008264:Macrophages / Q000166:cytology; D008954:Models, Biological; D009024:Morphogenesis; D009131:Muscle, Smooth, Vascular / Q000166:cytology; D018919:Neovascularization, Physiologic / Q000502:physiology*; D009432:Neural Crest / Q000166:cytology; D014714:Vertebrates / Q000196:embryology / Q000502:physiology