Deletion of Laminin-8 Results in Increased Tumor Neovascularization and Metastasis in Mice

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Abstract
Laminin-8 (α4β1γ1) is one of the major laminin isoforms expressed in vascular endothelial basement membranes. Here we show that deletion of laminin-8 in mice affects angiogenesis under pathological conditions. Murine tumor models used in laminin α4-deficient mice results in hyperneovascularization and significant promotion of tumor growth and metastasis. The higher tumor growth rates in mutant mice correlate with decreased tumor cell apoptosis. Depletion of laminin α4 chain may alter the structure of vascular basement membranes, leading to increased angiogenesis. Our data suggest that the laminin-8 plays a critical role in the regulation of pathological angiogenesis.

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