Angiostatin
Angiostatin (pronounced: an-gee-oh-stat-in) is a naturally occurring protein in the body that inhibits the growth of blood vessels, a process known as angiogenesis. It is a fragment of a larger protein, plasminogen, which is involved in the breakdown of blood clots.
Etymology
The term "Angiostatin" is derived from the Greek words angeion (meaning "vessel") and statos (meaning "standing"). It was first identified in 1994 by Dr. Judah Folkman, a pioneer in the field of angiogenesis.
Function
Angiostatin is a potent inhibitor of endothelial cell proliferation and angiogenesis. It is produced by the body to regulate the growth of blood vessels. It is believed to play a role in preventing the growth of tumors by inhibiting the formation of new blood vessels that would otherwise supply the tumor with nutrients and oxygen.
Clinical Significance
Angiostatin has been studied for its potential use in cancer treatment. By inhibiting angiogenesis, it may be possible to starve a tumor of its blood supply, thereby inhibiting its growth. However, the clinical application of angiostatin in cancer treatment is still under investigation.
Related Terms
- Angiogenesis: The formation of new blood vessels.
- Endothelial cells: Cells that line the interior surface of blood vessels.
- Plasminogen: A protein that angiostatin is derived from.
- Tumor: An abnormal growth of tissue.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Angiostatin
- Wikipedia's article - Angiostatin
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