regulation of sprouting angiogenesis

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that modulates the frequency, rate or extent of sprouting angiogenesis. [GO_REF:0000058, GOC:TermGenie, PMID:16756958]

Sprouting angiogenesis is a complex process that involves the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones. It plays a crucial role in development, wound healing, and tissue repair. The process is tightly regulated by a balance of pro-angiogenic and anti-angiogenic factors, which interact with endothelial cells, the cells that line the blood vessels, and the surrounding extracellular matrix.

The initiation of sprouting angiogenesis is often triggered by a lack of oxygen (hypoxia) or by growth factors released from tissues undergoing growth or repair. These signals activate endothelial cells to produce enzymes that break down the basement membrane, the layer that surrounds the blood vessels, and the extracellular matrix.

This process is aided by proteases like matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and plasminogen activators. Once the barrier is broken, endothelial cells start to proliferate and migrate towards the source of the signal, forming a sprout.

The sprouting process is guided by a complex interplay of chemotactic signals and cell-cell interactions. For instance, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a key pro-angiogenic factor that attracts endothelial cells and promotes their proliferation and survival. Other factors like fibroblast growth factor (FGF) and angiopoietins also play a significant role.

As the sprout elongates, it undergoes a process of lumen formation, where a hollow space develops inside the sprout, eventually forming a new blood vessel lumen. This process involves cell-cell interactions and the expression of specific proteins that create the lumen.

Simultaneously, the sprout branches out and connects with pre-existing vessels, establishing a network of new blood vessels. These new vessels are then stabilized and matured, becoming integrated into the existing vascular system. This process involves the recruitment of pericytes, which are cells that surround the endothelial cells and contribute to vessel stability and maturation.

The regulation of sprouting angiogenesis is a tightly controlled process, ensuring that new vessels form only when needed. This control is mediated by a complex interplay of pro-angiogenic and anti-angiogenic factors. While pro-angiogenic factors promote angiogenesis, anti-angiogenic factors inhibit it. These factors include thrombospondin-1, endostatin, and angiostatin.

This intricate balance of pro-angiogenic and anti-angiogenic factors ensures that sprouting angiogenesis is precisely regulated, preventing uncontrolled vascular growth that can lead to disease. For example, excessive angiogenesis can contribute to tumor growth and metastasis, while insufficient angiogenesis can hinder wound healing and tissue repair.

In summary, sprouting angiogenesis is a highly dynamic and regulated process that involves the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones. It is initiated by signals such as hypoxia or growth factors, involves the migration, proliferation, and differentiation of endothelial cells, and is regulated by a complex interplay of pro-angiogenic and anti-angiogenic factors. This complex process is essential for development, wound healing, and tissue repair.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (1)