Angiogenesehemmere

Angiogenesehemmere are substances that inhibit angiogenesis, the physiological process through which new blood vessels form from pre-existing ones. This process is crucial for growth and development, but it also plays a significant role in diseases such as cancer, where tumors require a constant supply of nutrients and oxygen to proliferate, and in conditions like age-related macular degeneration.

The development of anti-angiogenic therapies has opened new avenues for treating various diseases. These therapies aim to starve tumors by cutting off their blood supply, thereby hindering their growth and spread. In ophthalmology, inhibiting angiogenesis can prevent the formation of abnormal blood vessels in the eye that lead to vision loss.

Angiogenesehemmere can be broadly categorized into two main types: endogenous inhibitors, which are naturally occurring molecules in the body that regulate blood vessel growth, and exogenous inhibitors, which are drugs or compounds developed for therapeutic purposes. Exogenous anti-angiogenic drugs often target specific signaling pathways involved in angiogenesis, such as the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway.

While anti-angiogenic therapies have shown promise, they are not without challenges. Resistance to these therapies can develop, and side effects can occur, including hypertension and impaired wound healing. Research continues to explore new targets and combination strategies to improve the efficacy and reduce the toxicity of angiogenesehemmere.