CD31 has significant clinical implications, particularly in the context of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and inflammatory conditions. In cancer, CD31 expression is often studied to understand tumor angiogenesis, which is the formation of new blood vessels that supply the tumor with nutrients and oxygen. High levels of CD31 can indicate increased angiogenesis, which is associated with tumor growth and metastasis. In cardiovascular diseases, CD31 is involved in the maintenance of vascular integrity and the repair of damaged blood vessels. Abnormal CD31 expression or function can contribute to conditions such as atherosclerosis and vascular inflammation.
