Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays a central role in tumor angiogenesis and is known to influence vessel permeability. Members of the Steele Laboratory have recently demonstrated that non-neoplastic stromal cells are important contributors of intratumoral VEGF. Moreover, these cells are motile and localize with angiogenic vessels. At the moment, we do not have an understanding of how stromal cells migrate to angiogenic vessels, nor do we know the functional significance of this event. By better understanding these issues, we could propose new methods for disrupting tumor angiogenesis. This research proposal documents how I will use my previous and newly acquired skills with multiphoton microscopy and tissue transport to elucidate the role of tumor-stromal cell interactions from both a mechanistic and functional perspective. Namely, using transgenic mice which express GFP under the control of the VEGF promoter, I will determine: (1) how VEGF-expressing cells come to localize with angiogenic vessels; and (2) the impact of the proximity of these cells upon vessel permeability both within the tumor and in a controlled 3D tissue mimetic.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
5F32CA103386-02
Application #
6787653
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-F09 (20))
Program Officer
Lohrey, Nancy
Project Start
2003-07-22
Project End
2004-08-31
Budget Start
2004-07-22
Budget End
2004-08-31
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2004
Total Cost
$7,394
Indirect Cost
Name
Massachusetts General Hospital
Department
Type
DUNS #
073130411
City
Boston
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02199
Stroh, Mark; Zimmer, John P; Duda, Dan G et al. (2005) Quantum dots spectrally distinguish multiple species within the tumor milieu in vivo. Nat Med 11:678-82