Angiogenesis: possibilities for therapeutic interventions

Vascular proliferation normally occurs only during embryonic development, t he female reproductive cycle and wound healing. Various pathological condit ions such as diabetic retinopathy are characterized by persistent, uncontro lled angiogenesis. At the other hand, impaired development of new blood ves sels has been found to be related with myocardial infarction. A series of anti-angiogenic drugs are currently included in experimental ca ncer treatment, whereas the failure of ulcers to heal may be limited by inc reased angiogenesis upon administration of growth factors. In the present r eview control mechanisms of the vasculature are summarized and therapeutic approaches discussed.