From angiogenesis to neuropathology

Nature. 2005 Dec 15;438(7070):954-9. doi: 10.1038/nature04481.

Abstract

Angiogenesis--the growth of new blood vessels--is a crucial force for shaping the nervous system and protecting it from disease. Recent advances have improved our understanding of how the brain and other tissues grow new blood vessels under normal and pathological conditions. Angiogenesis factors, especially vascular endothelial growth factor, are now known to have roles in the birth of new neurons (neurogenesis), the prevention or mitigation of neuronal injury (neuroprotection), and the pathogenesis of stroke, Alzheimer's disease and motor neuron disease. As our understanding of pathophysiology grows, these developments may point the way towards new molecular and cell-based therapies.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain Diseases / metabolism
  • Brain Diseases / pathology
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic*
  • Nervous System / embryology
  • Nervous System / growth & development
  • Nervous System / metabolism
  • Nervous System / pathology*
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases / metabolism
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases / pathology
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / metabolism

Substances

  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A