Role of bone marrow-derived cells in tumor angiogenesis and treatment

The role of bone marrow-derived cells in tumor neovascularization is currently the subject of intense research and debate. Two recent studies (De Palma et al., 2003 and Garcia-Barros et al., 2003) offer novel yet somewhat conflicting evidence for the role of these cells in tumor growth and neovascularization. These results have significant implications for tumor biology and treatment. At the same time, they raise many questions, which must be addressed for translating these important findings into new, improved treatment strategies.