The process typically follows four major steps to remodel the vasculature:
Angiogenesis is the physiological process through which new blood vessels form from pre-existing ones. It is a critical "balancing act" in the body: when working correctly, it heals wounds and supports growth; when imbalanced, it can fuel diseases like cancer or lead to chronic inflammatory conditions. How Angiogenesis Works
: Pericytes and mural cells wrap around the new vessels to stabilize them and prevent leakage. The Therapeutic "Switch"
Medical research focuses on flipping the angiogenic "switch" depending on the condition:
: These cells migrate and organize into a tube-like structure.
: Stimuli like hypoxia (low oxygen) trigger endothelial cells to break through the vessel wall.