Neovaszkularizáció

Neovaszkularizáció, often translated as neovascularization, refers to the physiological process through which new blood vessels form from pre-existing ones. This is a complex, multi-step mechanism that is crucial for normal development and tissue repair. It involves the sprouting of new capillaries, their elongation, and their eventual connection to form a functional vascular network. The process is tightly regulated by a delicate balance of pro-angiogenic and anti-angiogenic factors.

The formation of new blood vessels is essential for various biological functions. During embryonic development, it establishes the circulatory system. In adults, it plays a vital role in wound healing, enabling the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissues and the removal of waste products. It is also implicated in the female reproductive cycle, particularly in the endometrium.

However, neovascularization can also contribute to disease processes. In conditions like cancer, tumors require a robust blood supply to grow and metastasize. The abnormal proliferation of blood vessels in the retina, known as diabetic retinopathy, can lead to vision loss. Conversely, insufficient neovascularization can impair healing and contribute to conditions such as ischemic heart disease. Therapeutic strategies are being developed to either promote or inhibit neovascularization depending on the specific medical context.