LYMPHANGIOGENESIS AND TUMOR METASTASIS

Current knowledge concerning both molecular and cellular mechanisms controlling tumor­ associated de novo formation of lymphatic vessels is analyzed. The special attention is focused on regulation of lymphangiogenesis by VEGF­C/D and their involvement in lymphatic metastasizing. The principal techniques used for the assessment of VEGF­C and VEGF­D content as well as the density of the lymphatic vessels are outlined. The prognostic/predictive potential of the above­mentioned parameters in the patients with different solid tumors is also discussed.