Whole or Partial Vessel Outgrowth Assays

In recent years, the assessment of angiogenesis has often involved the use of whole or partial vessel outgrowth assays such as that of the rat aortic ring, chick aortic arch, porcine carotid artery, human saphenous vein, placental vein disc, foetal mouse bone explant and rat vena cava model. The development of this ex vivo organ culture method closely recapitulates the complexities of angiogenesis, forming a bridge between in vitro and in vivo studies. Herein we will provide detailed descriptions of the individual assays followed by a discussion of their unique strengths and weaknesses. We will also highlight the emergence of recent developments and applications of this methodology that have been incorporated into common practice.