Pododermal microvascularization has been suggested to play a key role in the physiological function of the bovine claw and in the pathogenesis of claw diseases. According to our working hypothesis, angiogenesis plays a central role in the physiological and pathological function of the claw and is induced by the pro-angiogenic vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). As a basis for further research, the aim of the present study was to examine the mechanisms of pododermal angiogenesis in the functional adaptation of the microvasculature of the claw in histological serial sections and microcorrosion casts of healthy juvenile and adult claws as well as pathologically altered claws. Scanning electron microscopy of microcorrosion casts allowed assessment of the 3D aspect of pododermal angiogenesis and angioadaptation, and was substantiated by a concomitant examination of a 3D in vitro model of angiogenesis based on cultured bovine microvascular endothelial cells. Particularly in the juvenile, but also in the adult claw, sprouting and intussusceptive angioadaptation was demonstrated and resembled the respective stages of in vitro angiogenesis. Evidence of angiogenic processes was also detected in the pathologically altered claws displaying symptoms of subclinical laminitis and/or the digital dermatitis complex. The detected angioadaptation was visible expression of the increased metabolic demands of the claw caused by the growing body weight load. Angiogenic remodeling of the pododermal angioarchitecture was also the connectional reparative principle in pathologically altered claws. Related research perspectives for prophylaxis and therapy of claw diseases are discussed.
(c) 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.