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Synopsis of angiogenesis inhibitors in oncology
Lee M Ellis1, Wenbiao Liu, Fan Fan
1Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas, M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston 77030-4009, USA. lellis@mdanderson.org
Abstract:
Angiogenesis is a dynamic process essential for primary tumor growth and metastases. New insights into the basic understanding of the biologic processes responsible for angiogenesis have led to the characterization of potential therapeutic targets. Several strategies for the development of antiangiogenic therapeutic modalities have been employed, including agents that (1) decrease the activity of specific angiogenic factors, (2) decrease th$ activity of endothelial survival factors, (3) increase the activity of naturally occurring antiangiogenic agents, or (4) indirectly downregulate angiogenic and survivalfactor activity. Because antiangiogenic therapy is unlikely to induce tumor regression, the criteria for efficacy must be evaluated by means other than the standard response criteria used to evaluate cytotoxic chemotherapy. Further, the redundancy of molecules responsible for the angiogenic process suggests it is unlikely that a single antiangiogenic agent will provide prolonged inhibition of angiogenesis. Nevertheless, the understanding of the basic principles that drive tumor angiogenesis will lead to the development of therapies that will likely prolong survival without the toxicity associated with standard chemotherapy.
Insights
Targeting tumor angiogenesis offers a novel therapeutic strategy. Antiangiogenic therapies aim to inhibit tumor growth and metastasis, potentially prolonging survival with reduced toxicity compared to chemotherapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, is crucial for primary tumor growth and metastasis.
- Recent advancements have identified key molecular targets within the angiogenic process.
- Understanding these biologic pathways is essential for developing targeted therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current strategies for developing antiangiogenic therapies.
- To discuss the challenges and criteria for evaluating the efficacy of antiangiogenic treatments.
- To highlight the potential of antiangiogenic therapies in cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on angiogenesis and antiangiogenic agents.
- Categorization of therapeutic strategies based on their mechanism of action.
- Discussion of evaluation criteria for antiangiogenic therapy efficacy.
Main Results:
- Several strategies target angiogenic factors, endothelial survival, or natural antiangiogenic agents.
- Antiangiogenic therapy efficacy requires evaluation beyond standard cytotoxic chemotherapy response criteria.
- The multifaceted nature of angiogenesis suggests combination therapies may be necessary.
Conclusions:
- Targeting tumor angiogenesis represents a promising therapeutic approach.
- Antiangiogenic therapies have the potential to improve patient survival with lower toxicity.
- Further research into combination strategies is warranted to overcome therapeutic resistance.