New study discovers inflammatory molecules controlling capillary loss

(University of South Florida (USF Health)) A study led by researchers at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine discovered that three major proinflammatory mediators -- interlukin-1 beta, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and thrombin -- individually and especially when combined, directly drive capillary loss known to occur in diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases and malignant cancer. Using an innnovative 3-D cell model, the investigators also identified combinations of existing drugs that can block the regression of these tiny blood vessels.
Source: EurekAlert! - Cancer - Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: news