ABSTRACT
Angiogenesis is a complex process of sprouting new capillaries from the preexisting blood vessels. It happens in normal physiological processes, such as embryonic development, the female menstrual cycle, bone remodeling, and wound healing. On the other hand, angiogenesis also plays a crucial role in many pathological conditions, including tumor growth, diabetic retinopathy, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and atherosclerosis (Carmeliet and Jain, 2000; Folkman, 1995). The role of angiogenesis in tumor growth was •rst described by Folkman (1971). Without the supplement of blood circulation, the tumor size is restricted. Once a tumor becomes vascularized, the tumor mass expands rapidly (Hanahan and Folkman, 1996). These newly formed vessels not only promote tumor growth but also cause the tumor cells to become more malignant and metastatic (Fidler and Ellis, 1994). Evidence shows that inhibition of angiogenesis can suppress the progression of these associated diseases. Thus, angiogenesis has become a potential target, and a wide variety of therapies directed at interfering with this process are now in development (Scappaticci, 2002). Since some antiangiogenic agents are available in foods (Fang et al., 2007; Fassina et al., 2004; Mantell et al., 2000; Min et al., 2004; Tsuzuki et al., 2007), even if these agents possess moderate antiangiogenic effect, daily consumption of these compounds may help prevent angiogenic disorders.
