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Updated: Oct 3, 2026
Establishing a Physiologic Human Vascularized Micro-Tumor Model for Cancer Research
Published on: September 15, 2023
Measuring changes in human tumour vasculature in response to therapy using functional imaging techniques
Abstract:
Antiangiogenic and antivascular agents provide new approaches to treating tumours. These may avoid many of the problems experienced with current approaches such as inherent and acquired resistance to treatment. Tumours do not grow beyond 1-2 mm(3) in size without the development of new vessels (Folkman, 1971). Such neo-vascularization (angiogenesis) allows tumour cells to increase their nutrient supply, survive and proliferate despite the new vessels often having structural and functional differences compared to normal tissue vasculature. Treatments targeted at tumour vasculature have produced impressive results in animal models (Lindsay et al, 1996; Watson et al, 1996; O'Reilly, 1997; Horsman et al, 1998). These therapies are now entering clinical trials. However, the successful introduction of these therapies into clinical practice will require the development of reliable ways to assess angiogenesis and its modification or inhibition in vivo. Here we discuss some of the emerging imaging techniques that may be useful.
Insights
New antiangiogenic and antivascular agents offer novel cancer treatments, potentially overcoming resistance issues. Reliable imaging techniques are crucial for assessing tumor angiogenesis and guiding these therapies in clinical trials.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Vascular Biology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Tumor growth beyond 1-2 mm³ necessitates new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis).
- Tumor vasculature exhibits structural and functional differences from normal tissue.
- Antiangiogenic and antivascular agents present alternative cancer treatment strategies, addressing resistance to conventional therapies.
Discussion:
- Emerging imaging techniques are vital for evaluating the efficacy of antiangiogenic and antivascular therapies.
- Assessing tumor angiogenesis in vivo is critical for clinical translation.
- These novel agents aim to inhibit tumor neovascularization, impacting tumor survival and proliferation.
Key Insights:
- Tumor neovascularization is essential for tumor growth and survival.
- Antiangiogenic and antivascular therapies target tumor vasculature.
- Reliable in vivo assessment of angiogenesis is needed for clinical application.
Outlook:
- Clinical trials are underway for antiangiogenic and antivascular therapies.
- Advancements in imaging are expected to facilitate the clinical adoption of these treatments.
- Successful implementation requires robust methods to monitor treatment response and assess angiogenesis.
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