Structural Basis of Tumoral Angiogenesis

2003

Mammalian cells require oxygen and nutrients for metabolism and growth. In all cases tissues possess a vascular and lymphatic network assuring the supply of these needs within 200 to 250µm. Multicellular organisms that grow beyond this size require the recruitment of new blood vessels, although some normal tissues are devoid of specific vascularization (cartilage, cornea, epidermis), obtaining their oxygen and metabolic supply through perfusion