Angiogenesis and hypoxic factors in colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer is a common cause of cancer death in the developed world. Angiogenesis is a key factor in the growth and dissemination of malignant disease, including colorectal cancer, with significant implications for its clinical management. Over the past few years, significant inroads have been made into understanding the mechanisms and processes of angiogenesis in various malignancies. It is postulated that, with a greater understanding of the angiogenic mechanisms that govern tumor growth, anti-angiogenic compounds may be introduced to combine with conventional means to combat the growth and spread of malignant disease. This review discusses the mechanisms involved in tumor angiogenesis, highlighting its influence in colorectal cancer.