Insight on the cellular and molecular basis of blood vessel formation: A specific focus on tumor targets and therapy

Abstract

The cellular and molecular switches that govern angiogenesis are considered therapeutic targets for several diseases like tumors and atherosclerosis. Thus, understanding the detailed molecular mechanisms underlying the formation of the new blood vessel is essential for developing novel therapeutic strategies. The formation of a new blood vessel (angiogenesis) is tightly regulated by balancing pro‐ and antiangiogenic molecules. Dysregulated angiogenesis contributes to the pathogenicity of several diseases, including tumors associated with uncontrolled vessel growth. Experimental and clinical studies emphasize that angiogenesis is a critical step for the transition of the tumor to a life‐threatening malignancy. In recent years, angiogenesis has been targeted as one of the primary therapeutic goals for treating tumors, and rapid progress has been made by modulating its molecular regulators. Hence, the mechanisms of how blood vessel formation occurs could provide molecular insight into future angiogenic therapy. This review summarizes briefly the molecular players of blood vessel formation comprising vasculogenesis and angiogenesis and their role in tumor progression alongside antiangiogenic therapy.

In Silico Analysis of Novel Bacterial Metabolites with Anticancer Activities

“…New cancer therapeutics should, thus, be focused on novel protein targets. A case in point is FGF, because of the protein’s involvement in tumor cell growth and spread [ 35 ]. On the other hand, bacterial endophytes are a rich source of biologically active secondary metabolites with potential anticancer activity [ 58 , 59 ].…”

“…Cancer cells release angiogenic factors, including transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), angiogenin, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and fibroblast growth factor (FGF) [ 32 , 33 , 34 ]. These factors are responsible for initiating the proliferation, migration, and invasion of endothelial cells within new vascular structures [ 35 ]. Therefore, agents that target these factors will prevent the proliferation and migration of cancer cells and subsequent invasion of healthy cells.…”