What Role Do Angiogenesis and Hypoxia Play in Cancer?
In order to sustain rapid growth, tumors need a blood supply. Angiogenesis is the process by which new blood vessels form from pre-existing ones, and it is often upregulated in cancerous tissues. Tumors can secrete factors like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) to promote blood vessel formation. Moreover, areas of the tumor may become hypoxic due to inadequate blood supply, which can further drive angiogenesis and contribute to tumor aggression.
