Many developmental and regenerative processes require coordinated modulation of the immune response alongside the rapid formation of functional blood vessels. Wound healing, liver regeneration, response to ischemia and reperfusion injury, and even pregnancy exemplify the dynamic interplay between immune regulation and angiogenesis. Notably, malignant tumors exploit these developmental processes, orchestrating immune suppression pathways to evade immune clearance while promoting angiogenesis essential for tumor growth.

In some contexts, immunomodulation involves downregulating immune activity to prevent excessive inflammation, which could otherwise disrupt tissue repair or regeneration.

Immunomodulatory cell populations, including regulatory T cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and an array of cytokines, play crucial roles in tempering immune responses to allow tissue healing without interference from inflammation-driven damage. Many of these factors also regulate key pathways related to angiogenesis.

Liver regeneration following resection is a prime example of this balance. The immune response to tissue trauma must be carefully modulated to minimize excessive damage and foster organized tissue growth. Simultaneously, the rapid formation of functional vasculature is necessary to support developing tissue and ensure successful regeneration.

The aim of this research topic is to deepen our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underpin immune modulation and suppression in angiogenesis-dependent developmental and regenerative processes. By bringing together mechanistic, clinical, and translational research, we aim to identify key elements and pathways in immune suppression and angiogenesis that could serve as novel targets for therapeutic intervention, potentially improving outcomes in tissue repair, transplantation, and regenerative medicine.

We welcome basic, translational, and clinical studies that provide new insights into these complex processes, with an emphasis on potential future clinical applications to improve patient care. Submissions may address, but are not limited to, the following themes:

1. Characterization of immunomodulatory and angiogenesis-promoting cells and pathways in processes including wound healing, liver regeneration, cancer, pregnancy, organ transplantation, and more.

2. Examination of interactions and cross-talk between different immune-suppressive cell populations and pathways.

3. Identification of biomarkers for immune-suppressive states in regenerative processes and transplantation.

4. Identification of potential targets for intervention in processes involving immune suppression and angiogenesis.

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Frontiers in Immunology

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