The Contribution of Angiogenesis to the Process of Metastasis

Cancer J. 2015 Jul-Aug;21(4):267-73. doi: 10.1097/PPO.0000000000000138.

Abstract

The role of angiogenesis in tumor growth has been studied continuously for over 45 years. It is now appreciated that angiogenesis is also essential for the dissemination and establishment of tumor metastases. In this review, we focus on the role of angiogenesis as a necessity for the escape of tumor cells into the bloodstream and for the establishment of metastatic colonies in secondary sites. We also discuss the role of tumor lymphangiogenesis as a means of dissemination of lymphatic metastases. Appropriate combination therapies may be used in the future to both prevent and treat metastatic disease through the rational use of antiangiogenic and antilymphangiogenic therapies in ways that are informed by the current and future work in the field.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition
  • Humans
  • Lymphangiogenesis*
  • Lymphatic Metastasis*
  • Neoplasm Metastasis*
  • Neoplasms / blood supply
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors