Tumor angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis: tumor/endothelial crosstalk and cellular/microenvironmental signaling mechanisms

Life Sci. 2013 Feb 7;92(2):101-7. doi: 10.1016/j.lfs.2012.10.008. Epub 2012 Nov 21.

Abstract

Tumor angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis are key features of tumor progression and metastasis. The role of tumor cells-derived factors in the promotion of associated angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis is much studied and, no doubt, very important for the understanding of cancer progression. This review aims to present and discuss the work done on the pro-angiogenic and lymphangiogenic cellular interactions within the tumor microenvironment and the signaling pathways that regulate this crosstalk. Such multifactor studies are critical for the development of future therapeutic approaches for cancer because they take into account the complexities of cellular interactions within the tumor microenvironment.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Communication / physiology
  • Endothelium, Lymphatic / physiopathology
  • Endothelium, Vascular / physiopathology
  • Fibroblasts / physiology
  • Humans
  • Lymphangiogenesis / physiology*
  • Macrophages / physiology
  • Neoplasms / blood supply*
  • Neoplasms / physiopathology
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / physiopathology*
  • Signal Transduction / physiology*