In parallel with metastatic dissemination, VEGF released by CD44v6 + CRC cells likely contributes to increase tumor angiogenesis via the transdifferentiation of ASCs in endothelial cells and angiogenic sprouting of pre-existing vessels, thus sustaining the remodeling of tumor vasculature56–58 (Fig. 6j). The gene discussed is VEGFA; the disease is colorectal carcinoma.