Abstract
Many extraceullar biochemical signals control angiogenesis. In addition, biophysical factors are being recognized which affect endothelial behaviors and angiogenesis signaling pathways. We here review experimental evidence of electric signals as a controller of angiogenesis. In vivo electric stimulation enhances angiogenesis in muscle and brain tissues. Electric fields regulate expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and interleukin 8 (IL-8) in muscle cells and vascular endothelial cells. Electrical stimulation activates multiple signaling pathways that control endothelial cells and are important for angiogenesis. In ex vivo models, sprouting of endothelial cells and vessel formation from explants can be re-orientated by static electric charges or applied electric fields. While the role of endogenous electric fields in angiogenesis needs further investigation, electric fields represent a novel type of signaling paradigm for control of angiogenesis. Combination of electrical stimulation and other regulatory mechanisms may offer an effective technique to modulate angiogenesis, which may lead to therapies in angiogenesis-related diseases.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | The Physiology of Bioelectricity in Development, Tissue Regeneration and Cancer |
| Editors | Christine E. Pullar |
| Publisher | Taylor & Francis |
| Pages | 157-178 |
| Number of pages | 22 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9781439837238 , 1439837236 |
| Publication status | Published - 21 Mar 2011 |