Final answer:
The growth factor involved in tumor blood vessel development is vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). It stimulates cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis, which is vital for tumor growth. This explains why angiogenesis inhibitors are used in cancer treatments to block the blood supply to tumors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The growth factor most commonly involved in tumor blood vessel development is C. vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). VEGF plays a critical role in angiogenesis, which is the growth of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones. Angiogenesis is essential for tumor growth as it supplies oxygen and nutrients to the rapidly dividing cells. This growth factor stimulates several processes such as cell proliferation, migration, and adhesion, all of which contribute to the formation of new blood vessels.
Understanding the function of VEGF is important when considering treatment options for cancer. Drugs known as angiogenesis inhibitors are used in cancer treatment because they have the potential to block the development of new blood vessels, thereby inhibiting tumor growth and progression. These inhibitors target angiogenic pathways, including the action of VEGF, to suppress the blood supply to tumours.