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Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a survival factor for tumour cells: implications for anti-angiogenic
Judith H Harmey1, David Bouchier-Hayes
1Department of Surgery, Education and Research Centre, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland. jharmey@rcsi.ie
Abstract:
Angiogenesis is central to both the growth and metastasis of solid tumours. Anti-angiogenic strategies result in blood vessel regression accompanied by tumour cell apoptosis. Radiotherapy and many chemotherapeutic agents kill tumours by inducing apoptotic cell death. We propose that, in addition to its role as an angiogenic factor, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) can act as a survival factor for tumour cells protecting them from apoptosis. Thus anti-angiogenics, in particular those directed against VEGF, have multiple anti-tumour effects. We suggest that anti-VEGF strategies prevent vessel growth and block a tumour cell survival factor, VEGF, rendering tumour cells more sensitive to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In addition, as chemotherapy and radiotherapy have been shown to increase VEGF expression, anti-VEGF strategies may overcome therapy- induced tumour cell resistance.
Insights
Anti-angiogenic therapies targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) not only inhibit tumor growth but also enhance cancer treatment efficacy. Blocking VEGF sensitizes tumors to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, overcoming resistance.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Biology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Angiogenesis is crucial for solid tumor growth and metastasis.
- Anti-angiogenic therapies cause blood vessel regression and tumor cell apoptosis.
- Radiotherapy and chemotherapy induce tumor cell death via apoptosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) as a potential tumor cell survival factor.
- To explore the multifaceted anti-tumor effects of anti-VEGF strategies.
- To determine if anti-VEGF therapies can overcome chemo- and radio-resistance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and conceptual analysis of existing data on angiogenesis, VEGF, and cancer therapies.
- Hypothesizing the dual role of VEGF as an angiogenic and survival factor.
- Proposing a synergistic approach combining anti-VEGF strategies with conventional treatments.
Main Results:
- VEGF acts as a survival factor, protecting tumor cells from apoptosis.
- Anti-VEGF therapies possess multiple anti-tumor effects beyond inhibiting angiogenesis.
- Combined anti-VEGF therapy with chemotherapy/radiotherapy enhances tumor cell killing.
Conclusions:
- Anti-VEGF strategies, by blocking VEGF, inhibit tumor growth and sensitize cancer cells to apoptosis.
- Targeting VEGF can overcome therapy-induced tumor cell resistance.
- Combining anti-VEGF agents with chemotherapy and radiotherapy offers a promising strategy for improved cancer treatment.