How Do Myeloid Cells Contribute to Tumor Angiogenesis?
Myeloid cells, particularly MDSCs and TAMs, produce various growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) that promote angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels. This process is crucial for tumor growth as it provides the necessary oxygen and nutrients to rapidly proliferating cancer cells. Inhibiting the angiogenic function of myeloid cells is a key area of research in developing anti-cancer therapies.