& Molecular Biology Angiogenesis: the fundament of osseous regeneration

Introduction Bone formation, osseous regeneration and the associated physiological and pathologically altered angiogenesis are not only of vital importance in fracture repair but also play a constantly growing role in the diagnosis and treatment of chronically infected bone or osteonecrosis. The jaw and especially the mandible with its exceptional vascularization in the human body are prone to these diseases. The understanding of the molecular mechanisms of osteogenicangiogenic coupling is the fundament of a sufficient diagnosis and therapy. The aim of this critical review is to discuss angiogenesis from the description of the angiogenic cascade with its regulative mechanisms to the demands of regenerative medicine. We follow the process of bone formation under the influence of a sufficient angiogenesis with special regard to the key protagonist vascular endothelial growth factor, the osteogenic–angiogenic interface and their interaction. Conclusion The potential of angiogenesis as a pivotal factor in many areas of tissue maintenance and regeneration is obvious, and angiogenesis will play a significant role in developing therapeutic regenerative concepts.