Direct Evidence for Tumor Necrosis Factor-α Signaling in Arteriogenesis

Abstract
Background— Arteriogenesis serves as an efficient mechanism for flow restoration after arterial occlusion. This process is associated with inflammatory mediators such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), although their role in arteriogenesis remains unclear. We hypothesized that arteriogenesis is reduced in mice lacking functional TNF-α or p55 receptor. To test this hypothesis, we developed a novel microsphere-based murine model of hindlimb perfusion measurement.