Bone marrow derived cells in collateral formation : studies toward therapeutic arteriogenesis

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the Western world. Therapeutic strategies to obtain revascularization of affected limbs are frequently needed in these patients. Unfortunately, the initial success of surgical and/or endovascular revascularization can be threatened by progressive disease ultimately leading to an amputation. A better understanding of the complex cellular and molecular processes involved in post-ischemic neovascularization may reveal novel options for therapeutic interventions for PAD patients. This thesis describes reports that contribute to an increase in the knowledge and insights into different cell types involved in collateral artery growth in limb ischemia with the aim of developing new therapeutic strategies for PAD.