New vessels, new approaches: angiogenesis as a therapeutic target in musculoskeletal disorders

Musculoskeletal disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis are a common cause of pain and disability. The vasculature is an important component of the musculoskeletal system, and vascularization is a key event in the development of normal cartilage and bone. By promoting the delivery of nutrients, oxygen and cells, blood vessels help maintain the structural and functional integrity of joints and soft tissue and may facilitate tissue repair and healing. The identification of pro-angiogenic mediators such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has led to the development of antiangiogenic therapies for the treatment of neoplastic diseases. The important role of angiogenesis, and especially VEGF, in the pathogenesis of joint disorders such as RA suggests that antiangiogenic therapy may be a useful adjunct to existing approaches in RA.