The Role of alpha9beta1 Integrin in Modulating Pulmonary Angiogenesis

Targeted Therapeutics Research Award
Funded equally by LUNGevity Foundation and American Lung Association National Office
Nicholas Vlahakis, MD
Mayo Clinic
Rochester
MN

Angiogenesis is the process by which cancer cells recruit blood vessels to the tumor. This aids the growth of cancer cells by providing nutrition and oxygen to them. Dr. Vlahakis is studying how a protein called VEGF-A interacts with certain proteins expressed on the surface of lung cells to control the angiogenesis process.