The intestinal microvasculature as a therapeutic target in inflammatory bowel disease

Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2006 Aug:1072:78-97. doi: 10.1196/annals.1326.003.

Abstract

Chronic inflammation is a complex biologic process which involves immune as well as non-immune cells including the microvasculature and its endothelial lining. Growing evidence suggests that the microvasculature plays an integral role in the pathophysiology of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD; Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis). The microvasculature contributes to chronic inflammation through altered leukocyte recruitment, impaired perfusion, and angiogenesis leading to tissue remodeling. These diverse areas of IBD microvascular biology represent therapeutic targets that are currently undergoing investigation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angiogenesis Inducing Agents / therapeutic use
  • Animals
  • Cell Adhesion
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Endothelium, Vascular / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Inflammatory Bowel Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Inflammatory Bowel Diseases / physiopathology*
  • Intestines / blood supply*
  • Microcirculation / physiopathology*
  • Neovascularization, Physiologic

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inducing Agents