Presenting the latest advances in basic science, this book also reviews the status of the clinical applications of angiogenic growth factors and inhibitors. It explores current molecular and genetic findings on the regulation of angiogenesis, discusses the results of clinical trials and identifies the pathological conditions that are most likely to benefit from such treatments. Edited by a foremost researcher in the field, the book includes contributions from experts in their respective disciplines, supplemented by illustrations and photographs. A unique combination of information on basic science and clinical trials research, this book is truly a state-of-the-art review of the science.

While angiogenesis, the process in which new blood vessels grow from pre-existing vessels is a normal part of growth and development, it also plays a key role in the transition of tumors from dormant to malignant states, prompting researchers to explore the use of anti- angiogenesis agents in therapeutic applications. In this work, Ferrara (Genentech, Inc.) presents examples of recent work in the field, looking at advances in the basic science and in clinical studies with inhibitors of angiogenesis. Particular topics covered by the 13 chapters include pathophysiology and clinical implications of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-a signaling protein), signal transduction of VEGF receptors toward angiogenesis, growth factors and lymphangiogenesis, neural guidance molecules in vascular development, non-angiogenic functions of VEGF, contribution of pro-angiogenic hematopoietic cells to vascularization of tumor and ischemic tissues, antiangiogenic drugs as broadly effective chemosensitizing agents, ocular neovascularization, and therapeutic angiogenesis for cardiovascular disease. Annotation ©2006 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Why a new book on angiogenesis and why now? For the first time concepts proposed over 30 years ago have found clinical validation. In the last two years the first antiangiogenic agents have been approved by the FDA for the treatment of cancer and age-related macular degeneration. Not surprisingly, this clinical success has raised a new set of basic and clinical questions that need to be addressed.

Angiogenesis: From Basic Science to Clinical Applications presents the latest advances in basic science and reviews the status of the clinical applications of angiogenic growth factors and inhibitors. It explores current molecular and genetic findings on the regulation of angiogenesis, discusses the results of clinical trials and identifies the pathological conditions that are most likely to benefit from such treatments.

Edited by a leading researcher in the field, the book includes contributions from multiple experts in their respective disciplines, supplemented by illustrations and photographs. A unique combination of information on basic science and clinical trials research, this book is truly a state-of-the-art review of the state of the science.