Angiogenesis in P- and E-selectin-deficient mice

Objectives: Several observations reported earlier indicated that the select ins, in particular E-selectin, might be involved in angiogenesis; however, mice deficient in the endothelial selectins develop normally. To clarify th e role of endothelial selectins in angiogenesis, we have studied experiment ally induced angiogenesis in selectin-deficient mice. Methods: Hydron pellets containing either basic fibroblast growth factor or the inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor alpha were implanted into the corneas of wild-type and P- and/or E-selectin-deficient mice. Results: The lengths and circumferential range of the newly formed blood ve ssels in the corneas of the endothelial selectin-deficient mice were simila r to those of wild-type mice. Conclusion: The endothelial selectins are not essential in experimentally i nduced angiogenesis in vivo.