Tumor angiogenesis is a complex and delicate biological process involving multiple steps and multiple cell interactions. The following is the basic process of tumor angiogenesis:
First, the release and activation of angiogenic factors
In tumor tissue, due to hypoxia, inflammatory response, or genetic factors, a series of angiogenic factors are released or activated. These factors include vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), etc., which can stimulate vascular endothelial cells to proliferate, migrate and form new blood vessels.
Second, activation and proliferation of endothelial cells
Under the action of angiogenic factors, vascular endothelial cells are activated and exhibit a proliferative and migratory phenotype. These cells begin to separate from the existing blood vessel walls and migrate into the tumor tissue. At the same time, they also proliferate to increase the number of endothelial cells needed for angiogenesis.
Third, matrix degradation and vascular budding
As endothelial cells migrate and proliferate, they need to cross blood vessel walls and extracellular matrix to form new blood vessels. In this process, enzymes such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) degrade the extracellular matrix to provide space for endothelial cell migration. At the same time, endothelial cells form new blood vessel buds through budding and division, which gradually extend and connect with each other to form a new blood vessel network.
Fourth, the formation and stability of vascular lumen
New blood vessel buds gradually develop into capillaries with lumen. In this process, endothelial cells form tight connections between each other and secrete extracellular matrix components to reinforce the blood vessel walls. At the same time, vascular support cells such as pericytes are also recruited around the new blood vessels to further stabilize the vascular structure and promote the improvement of its function.
Fifth, the maturation and remodeling of vascular network
As the tumor grows and develops, the neovascularization network also continues to mature and reshape. In this process, some unnecessary blood vessels may be eliminated or reshaped into more efficient blood vessel structures to better meet the oxygen and nutrient requirements of tumor tissue. At the same time, tumor blood vessels may also undergo abnormal changes, such as increased permeability and weak blood vessel walls, which contribute to the invasion and metastasis of tumor cells.
In summary, tumor angiogenesis is a complex process involving a variety of cells and molecules, including the release and activation of angiogenic factors, the activation and proliferation of endothelial cells, matrix degradation and vascular budding, the formation and stability of vascular lumen, and the maturation and remodeling of vascular networks. This process has an important impact on tumor growth, invasion and metastasis, and is therefore one of the important targets of tumor therapy.
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