Angiogenesis inhibitors
Angiogenesis inhibitors
Angiogenesis inhibitors (pronounced: an-gee-oh-gen-esis in-hib-it-ors) are a class of drugs that inhibit the growth of new blood vessels, a process known as angiogenesis. They are used in the treatment of cancer and other diseases that involve the excessive growth of blood vessels.
Etymology
The term "angiogenesis inhibitors" is derived from the Greek words "angeion" (meaning vessel), "genesis" (meaning origin or creation), and the Latin word "inhibitor" (meaning one who restrains).
Mechanism of action
Angiogenesis inhibitors work by blocking the signals that stimulate the growth of new blood vessels. They do this by binding to and inhibiting the action of proteins known as growth factors, which are responsible for promoting the growth and development of new blood vessels.
Types of angiogenesis inhibitors
There are several types of angiogenesis inhibitors, including:
- Monoclonal antibodies: These are proteins that are designed to bind to specific targets on the surface of cells. In the case of angiogenesis inhibitors, they are designed to bind to growth factors and prevent them from stimulating the growth of new blood vessels.
- Tyrosine kinase inhibitors: These are small molecules that inhibit the activity of enzymes known as tyrosine kinases, which play a key role in the signaling pathways that promote angiogenesis.
- Endogenous inhibitors: These are naturally occurring substances in the body that inhibit angiogenesis. They include proteins such as angiostatin and endostatin.
Uses
Angiogenesis inhibitors are primarily used in the treatment of cancer. By inhibiting the growth of new blood vessels, they can starve a tumor of the nutrients and oxygen it needs to grow and spread. They are also used in the treatment of age-related macular degeneration, a condition that involves the excessive growth of blood vessels in the eye.
Related terms
- Angiogenesis: The process of forming new blood vessels.
- Growth factor: A substance, such as a protein or steroid, that is necessary for the growth and development of cells and tissues.
- Monoclonal antibody: A type of protein made in the laboratory that can bind to substances in the body, including cancer cells.
- Tyrosine kinase inhibitor: A type of drug that blocks signals needed for tumors to grow.
- Endogenous inhibitor: A naturally occurring substance in the body that inhibits a specific process, such as angiogenesis.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Angiogenesis inhibitors
- Wikipedia's article - Angiogenesis inhibitors
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