Angiogenesis

Definition

Angiogenesis is the formation of new capillary blood vessels from pre-existing vasculature, as distinct from vasculogenesis (new vessel formation from progenitor cells). The angiogenic process involves a coordinated sequence of endothelial cell activation by pro-angiogenic signals (principally VEGF, FGF, and angiopoietins), basement membrane degradation by matrix metalloproteinases, endothelial cell migration and proliferation, and lumen formation and vessel stabilization by pericytes. Angiogenesis is a critical component of wound healing, tissue regeneration, and developmental biology, and is also a target of interest in oncology research.

Research Context

Angiogenesis is a key research endpoint in studies examining peptide compounds relevant to tissue repair and wound healing. BPC-157 and TB-500 are both studied for their capacity to promote angiogenesis in preclinical wound models, though via different molecular mechanisms. GHK-Cu has also been documented to promote capillary formation in in vitro angiogenesis assays. Standard preclinical angiogenesis assays include the tube formation assay in HUVEC endothelial cells, the aortic ring assay, matrigel plug assays in vivo, and microvessel density counting in histological sections from wound tissue.