Lymphangiogenesis: Molecular mechanisms and future promise.
The growth of lymphatic vessels (lymphangiogenesis) is actively involved in a number of pathological processes including tissue inflammation and tumor dissemination but is insufficient in patients suffering from lymphedema, a debilitating condition characterized by chronic tissue edema and impaired immunity. The recent explosion of knowledge on the molecular mechanisms governing lymphangiogenesis provides new possibilities to treat these diseases.
Tammela
Tuomas
T
Molecular/Cancer Biology Laboratory and Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Finland.
Alitalo
Kari
K
D000818:Animals; D042783:Endothelial Cells / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D007249:Inflammation / Q000503:physiopathology; D042583:Lymphangiogenesis / Q000187:drug effects; D042601:Lymphatic Vessels / Q000502:physiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000503:physiopathology