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Tumor angiogenesis as a therapeutic target
1Head of Oncology Research, Novartis Pharma AG, 4002, Tel.: +41 61 696 2049; fax: +41 61 696 7826, Basel, Switzerland
Abstract:
Angiogenesis - the formation of new blood vessels within a tumor (or many other tissue types) - has become a hotbed of pharmacological research as well as industrial drug discovery. This is the result of the efforts of a generation of scientists elucidating the complex (patho)physiological, biochemical and molecular events accompanying angiogenesis. It is estimated that >300 drug candidates are currently in various stages of testing, and it is, therefore, impossible to capture all of this in a brief review. Therefore, the emphasis here is on relatively advanced projects that are either in preclinical or clinical development, thus neglecting, to a large extent, the many exciting avenues being pursued in both academic and biotechnology laboratories. Although the potential of the approaches described cannot be overestimated, it is also important to note that there is still no drug on the market that achieves clinical benefit based on a selective modulation or inhibition of angiogenesis.
Insights
Angiogenesis, the growth of new blood vessels, is a key target in cancer drug discovery. Despite over 300 drug candidates in development, no drug selectively inhibiting angiogenesis has reached the market yet.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology and Drug Discovery
- Oncology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, is crucial for tumor growth and has become a major focus in pharmacological research.
- Extensive research has elucidated the complex physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms underlying angiogenesis.
- Over 300 drug candidates targeting angiogenesis are currently undergoing various stages of testing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review advanced drug candidates for angiogenesis modulation currently in preclinical or clinical development.
- To highlight promising therapeutic strategies in the field of angiogenesis research.
- To provide an overview of the current landscape of anti-angiogenesis drug discovery.
Main Methods:
- Focus on drug candidates in advanced preclinical or clinical development stages.
- Review of scientific literature and industry pipelines related to angiogenesis inhibitors.
- Exclusion of early-stage academic and biotechnology research to maintain focus.
Main Results:
- A significant number of drug candidates (>300) are in development for modulating angiogenesis.
- The review emphasizes advanced projects, including those in preclinical and clinical trials.
- No drug currently on the market offers clinical benefit through selective angiogenesis modulation or inhibition.
Conclusions:
- Despite extensive research and numerous drug candidates, the clinical translation of selective angiogenesis inhibitors remains a challenge.
- The field holds significant therapeutic potential, but further advancements are needed for successful clinical application.
- Continued research and development are essential to overcome existing hurdles in bringing anti-angiogenesis therapies to patients.