Fig. 5: TAMs and angiogenesis.
From: Exploring tumor-associated macrophages in glioblastoma: from diversity to therapy
Angiogenesis is essential for tumor growth in GBM, with TAMs playing a crucial role by secreting pro-angiogenic factors like VEGF, IL-6, CXCL2, and IGFBP1. VEGF-A promotes endothelial cell proliferation, while IGFBP1 activates PI3K-Akt and MAPK pathways to support blood vessel formation. MIF and TREM-2 on TAMs also enhance angiogenesis, with TREM-2 shown to increase vessel density in GBM. TAMs contribute to vascular mimicry through IL-6, which activates JAK-STAT signaling, further aiding tumor invasion. CRP and KDELC2 from TAMs upregulate angiogenic factors, enhancing endothelial cell proliferation and sustaining tumor vascularization.
