Invegtigations on anti-angiogenic effects of gossypol with in vitro and in vivo methods

This thesis includesin vitro and in vivo experimental studies to evaluate theeffects of Gossypol which is derived from cotton (Gossypium hirsitum) on angiogenesis. This study revealed the anti-angiogenic effects of Gossypol in cell culture studies with HUVEC (Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cell) cellsdepending on the effects on cellular proliferation, endothelial cell migration and tube formation which are basic steps of angiogenesis.Anti-angiogenic effect of Gossypol was evaluated with CAM (Chorioallantoic Membrane) assay using fertilized Ross-308 chicken eggs and Ehrlich tumor model on Balb/c mice depending on the results of the cell culture studies. It was seen that Gossypol decreased cell viability, inhibited cell migration and tube formation on HUVEC cells depending on the dose, inhibited capillary formation on CAM and tumor formation on Ehrlich tumor model.In addition, when the beginning and the end of the experiment of Gossypol applied tumour groups in Balb/c mice compared,changes in some biochemical and hematological parameters, reduction in tumour density in histochemical studies, increment in apoptotic cells, reduction in VEGF expression were seen. As a result Gossypol is a substance having anti-angiogenic effect. However, further studies are needed to determine its convenience as a natural product in anti-angiogenic therapy which is an alternative way of cancer treatment.