Angiogenesis

/ˌændʒioʊˈdʒɛnəsɪs/ noun

Definition

The formation of new blood vessels from existing ones, a process essential for tissue growth, wound healing, and unfortunately, tumor development. Cancer cells hijack this normal process to ensure their own blood supply for continued growth.

Etymology

From Greek 'angeion' meaning vessel and 'genesis' meaning creation or birth. The term was coined in the 1970s as scientists began understanding how blood vessel formation could be manipulated, particularly in the context of cancer research.

Kelly Says

Angiogenesis is like a city planning department that tumors hack to get premium real estate with excellent blood supply infrastructure! Tumors can't grow larger than a pinhead without convincing nearby blood vessels to branch toward them, making this process a critical target for cancer therapy.

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