The purpose of this project was to determine whether or not the Angiopoietin-1 gene is present in human ovary tissue. Through the use of polymerase chain reaction to amplify the genetic material, and through DNA purification, it was determined that the Ang-1 gene is present in human ovary tissue. This has therefore opened up new opportunities for therapeutic procedures. Introduction Blood vessels are required to supply oxygen and nutrients and to remove waste products from living tissue. Angiogenesis is the process of generating new capillary blood vessels.
Angiogenesis is fundamental to healing, reproduction and embryonic development.
During development, new blood vessels originate from endothelial cell precursors, angioblasts, by a process called vasculogenesis, or from pre-existing blood vessels by angiogenesis. Both processes are mediated by paracrine growth factors. This binding allows the blood vessel to recruit the peri-endothelial cells that will surround it. New blood vessels can provide exit for cancer cells to spread to other parts of the body. The drug that can cut off a tumor s blood supply is known as an angiogenesis inhibitor.