Different patterns of angiogenesis in sarcomas and carcinomas

Abstract

Solid tumors depend on angiogenesis for growth and metastasis. It has been shown that blood vessel density, as determined by counting the number of capillaries in clustered bursts, is a significant prognostic factor in carcinomas. It is unclear, however, whether vessel density is a prognostic factor in sarcomas. In this study, we examined angiogenesis in sarcomas of various grades and compared their vascular patterns to those of carcinomas. Microvessels were identified by von Willebrand factor staining. The matrix of multiple sarcoma and breast carcinoma specimens were extracted and subjected to Western analysis of various angiogenic factors and inhibitors. Metalloproteinase inhibitor presence was also determined by in situ hybridization. In breast carcinomas, capillaries were clustered in bursts within the stroma of the tumor, whereas the sarcoma capillaries were homogeneously distributed in the tumor stroma. Random blood vessel density per high power field in sarcomas did not correlate with patient prognosis. The matrix of sarcomas and carcinomas contained both angiogenic stimulators and inhibitors. Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 was found predominantly in fibroblasts and myofibroblasts in the matrix of carcinoma specimens. The difference in the pattern of angiogenesis in sarcomas and carcinomas may be attributable to the presence of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts in carcinomas, resulting in the compartmentalization of bursts of angiogenic factors. The homogeneous appearance of vessel density in sarcomas observed in the present study would be the consequence of the influence of a single compartment.