Angiogenesis and Cancer

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to angiogenesis and cancer from lecture notes.

Angiogenesis

The process of sprouting new blood vessels from previously formed vessels.

VEGF

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, a key molecule that stimulates angiogenesis.

Tumour Angiogenesis

The process by which tumour cells secrete factors like VEGF to promote the formation of blood vessels for their growth.

Hypoxia

A low oxygen condition that triggers angiogenesis.

Vasculogenesis

The de novo formation of blood vessels from angioblasts, different from angiogenesis.

Endothelial Progenitor Cells

Cells that differentiate into endothelial cells and are crucial for blood vessel formation.

Pericytes

Cells that surround blood vessels and are involved in maintaining vessel stability.

Tumour Vasculature Characteristics

Abnormal features of tumour blood vessels, such as rough endothelial surface and disorderly branching.

HIF1⍺ Protein

A transcription factor that is activated in low oxygen conditions and drives the expression of VEGF.

Angiogenic Gradient

The concentration of vascular growth factors that attract angiogenic precursor cells to areas needing blood vessel formation.