Arteriogenesis: Prognosis and Therapeutical Potential

Arteriogenesis is the process of increasing the diameter of the existing arterial vessels. This process is significant in the field of molecular cardiology. It involves remodeling the existing collateral arteries for generating larger conductance vessels in place of vessels which have become insufficient or occluded for providing appropriate perfusion to an organ or a tissue. The coronary artery blockage results in flow shear stress that causes endothelial cell expression, and the release of chemokines and adhesion molecules. Monocytes are transmigrated and attracted towards the vessel wall where they release pro-arteriogenic molecules. The process of collateral vessel formation is seriously effected in patients with various risk factors associated with atherosclerosis, including hyperlipedemia or diabetes. This is due to the impaired migration ability of monocytes towards pro-arteriogenic stimuli such as VEGF-A and MCP-1. Growth factor therapy might be utilized for improving and restoring collateral growth in the patients with dysfunctional arteriogenesis. This book provides significant information to help develop a good understanding of arteriogenesis, its prognosis and therapeutical potential. It strives to provide a fair idea about arteriogenesis and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances in its clinical management.