Vascular proliferation normally occurs only during embryonic development, the female reproductive cycle and wound healing. Various pathological conditions such as diabetic retinopathy are characterized by persistent, uncontrolled angiogenesis. At the other hand, impaired development of new blood vessels has been found to be related with myocardial infarction. A series of anti-angiogenic drugs are currently included in experimental cancer treatment, whereas the failure of ulcers to heal may be limited by increased angiogenesis upon administration of growth factors. In the present review control mechanisms of the vasculature are summarized and therapeutic approaches discussed.