Figure 2.

Mechanical aspects of angiogenesis. 1: increased matrix stiffness leads to increased migration; 2: enhanced matrix elasticity (increased stiffness) for tip cell to break out of existing vessel; 3: uPA/uPAR mediated ECM degradation by MMPs; 4: filopodia branching for tip cell direction; 5: VEGF mediated activation of the Notch signaling pathway, increased cell-matrix connections of stalk cells via NICD integrin interactions; 6: activation of YAP/TAZ by mechanical cues influencing the migration and filopodia formation via matrix remodeling, YAP/TAZ further supports ECM formation for vessel stabilization; 7: mechanical stimuli exerted by the blood flow; 8: vessel stabilization by mural cell recruitment.