Antiangiogeeninen

Antiangiogeeninen refers to a substance or process that inhibits or prevents angiogenesis. Angiogenesis is the physiological process through which new blood vessels form from pre-existing ones. This process is crucial for normal development, such as wound healing and the formation of new tissues. However, it also plays a vital role in the growth and spread of tumors, as cancer cells require a blood supply to obtain nutrients and oxygen and to metastasize.

Antiangiogenic agents work by targeting various molecular pathways involved in angiogenesis. These pathways can include the production of growth factors like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), the signaling pathways activated by these factors, and the interaction of endothelial cells with the extracellular matrix. By disrupting these mechanisms, antiangiogenic therapies aim to starve tumors of their blood supply, thereby inhibiting their growth and preventing their spread.

The concept of antiangiogenesis has led to the development of various therapeutic strategies, primarily in the field of oncology. Antiangiogenic drugs are used as a treatment for several types of cancer, often in combination with other therapies like chemotherapy or radiation. While these therapies have shown promise, they can also have side effects, and their effectiveness can vary depending on the type of cancer and the individual patient. Research continues to explore new and more effective antiangiogenic agents and to understand the complex mechanisms of angiogenesis more fully.