Angiogenesis-research frontiers. A basic science conference of the New York Academy of Medicine

Angiogenesis, the development of new blood vessels, is essential for both tumour growth and metastasis. Recent advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the angiogenic process and its regulation have led to the discovery of a variety of targets for therapeutic intervention. The potential application of these angiogenic inhibitors is currently under intense preclinical and clinical investigation. Compelling evidence suggests that vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and their receptors play critical roles in tumour-associated angiogenesis. Tumour homing factors will drive the growth of new vessels, neoangiogenesis, to satisfy the demands of the growing tumour. By attacking the angiogenic process the tumour will he starved for oxygen and nutrients, thus impairing its growth. This has been demonstrated in a variety of animal tumour models in which disabling the function of VEGF or its receptor was shown to inhibit both tumour growth and metastasis. The New York Academy of Medicine organised a day-long meeting to discuss emerging ideas, currently available in vitro and animal models and evaluation of these therapies during their preclinical development and in clinical trials.