Ascorbate inhibition of angiogenesis in aortic rings ex vivo and subcutaneous Matrigel plugs in vivo

JOURNAL OF ANGIOGENESIS RESEARCH

Nina A Mikirova, Joseph J Casciari, Neil H Riordan
This article is available from: http://www.jangiogenesis.com/content/pdf/2040-2384-2-2.pdf

Angiogenesis, the generation of new blood vessels, is thought to be necessary for tumor growth and metastasis. Thus, there is considerable interest in developing anti-cancer therapies based on the inhibition of tumor-induced angiogenesis [6,7]. Most angiogenesis inhibitors currently being tested work either by neutralizing endothelial cell growth factors, inhibition endothelial cell proliferation, preventing turnover of basement membrane, or blocking capillary formation. Unfortunately, most of these agents are toxic and have high risk of adverse effects. In hopes of finding less toxic angiogenesis inhibitors, substances derived from natural sources, such as flavonoids, sulphated carbohydrates, or triterpenoids are being examined, as are natural health products such as herbs, phytochemicals, and antioxidants [8,9]. In regard to antioxidant angiogenesis inhibitors, vitamin C is of particular interest for a variety of reasons. First, it is has already been shown to have anti-tumor effects in certain experimental and clinical settings, provided that ascorbate concentrations reach the millimolar range [10-15]. Secondly, its role in supporting the later stages of wound healing, particularly collagen formation and strengthening of extracellular matrix, may counter tumor-induced neovascularization [10].  Read More >>