ABSTRACT

The task of comparing genetic programs for neovascularization between an embryo or fetus and an adult is fundamentally a question of how the genome participates in vascular development; then how the genome functions in the adult for vascular homeostasis or pathologies that activate angiogenesis. Morphogenesis of the vascular system involves several fundamental molecular and cellular processes such as differentiation, proliferation, migration, determination, adhesion and apoptosis ( Figure 1 ). All of these processes are at play throughout developmental and adult stages because they are interwoven in any fundamental genetic program for tissue growth and renewal. Vascular structure and morphogenesis. Differential gene expression forms the basis for morphogenesis of the circulatory system, shown as a continuous process from cells to tissues to organs and organ system; the circulatory system. The inset box shows the role of vasculogenesis, embryonic angiogenesis and adult angiogenesis in this scheme. Vascular tissue develops early through vasculogenesis then embryonic angiogenesis. As various tissues, organs and organ systems develop, the vascular system is an inherent, vital tissue that is interwoven through other tissues and organs by embryonic angiogenesis. In the adult, the vascular system is maintained by homeostatic, adult angiogenesis. https://s3-euw1-ap-pe-df-pch-content-public-p.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/9780203427811/7fdd6328-3963-4047-91d8-7650f87a3498/content/fig10_1.tif"/>