Angiopoietins, abdominal aortic aneurysm and atherosclerosis

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and atherosclerosis are common causes of mortality and morbidity in an aging population. Angiogenesis is believed to contribute to the development and progression of these diseases. Angiopoietins (angpts) are known to be important regulators of angiogenesis. Angpts can also influence inflammation and have been shown to possess both pro-atherosclerotic and atheroprotective effects. This review explores the potential roles that the angpts play in the development and progression of AAA and atherosclerosis.