Simulating the Effects of Angiogenesis on Tumorigenesis Through Computational Modeling

Angiogenesis is a physiological process in which new blood vessels are formed from pre-existing vessels. It is one of the hallmarks of cancer and contributes greatly to the sustained growth of a tumor. Without the nutrient influx provided by newly formed capillaries, tumors growth is curtailed due to a lack of oxygen diffusion into the central region of the tumor body. Angiogenesis substantially increases the risk of developing cancer and as a result, anti-angiogenic therapies are being developed for cancer treatment.Copyright © 2009 by ASME