Angiogenic activity and neovascularization in adenocarcinoma of endometrium

Abstract

Angiogenic activity of adenocarcinoma of endometrium was evaluated by qualitative and quantitative assays that measure vessel growth in chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) of chick embryo and incorporation of [3H] thymidine to DNA of CAM, respectively. In addition, histological specimens of adenocarcinoma with the vascular system filled with contrasting medium, were examined for the presence of neovascularization. Both qualitative and quantitative assays on CAM indicated that adenocarcinoma of endometrium possessed angiogenic activity. Histological analysis suggested that neovascularization took place during development of adenocarcinoma. It is therefore possible that neovascularization in this tumor is stimulated by its angiogenic activity.