Growth Factor-Induced Angiogenesis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which accounts for ~ 90% of total liver cancer cases, is considered to be the second leading cause of death globally. Tumor vasculature has been identified as a prominent source of HCC progression. Angiogenesis, or vascular growth, is supported by many proangiogenic growth factors (GFs). Delineating the GF signaling-pathway axis and mechanisms underlying angiogenesis regulation could lead to useful and effective HCC treatments. This review collectively highlights different proangiogenic GFs, their key roles in angiogenesis regulation, and current antiangiogenic therapies for HCC.