In Vitro and In Vivo Models of Angiogenesis to Dissect MMP Functions

Abstract

Angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis, the formation of new blood and lymphatic vessels from preexisting ones, are important processes associated with cancer growth and metastatic dissemination. It has become clear that matrix metalloproteinases contribute more to angiogenesis than by just degrading matrix components. They are capable to process a large array of extracellular and cell-surface proteins, and they contribute both in the onset and in the maintenance of angiogenesis. Their implication during lymphangiogenesis is expected, but not yet documented. This chapter describes in vitro and in vivo models which have proven suitability for investigating each step of (lymph)angiogenic processes. Their rationale and limitation is discussed and emerging functions of matrix metalloproteinases are reviewed.