VEGF inhibitors in cancer therapy
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Updated: Aug 11, 2026
A Simple Bioassay for the Evaluation of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors
Published on: March 15, 2016
Adela R Cardones1, Lionel L Banez
1Dermatology Branch, National Cancer Institute/NIH, 10 Center Drive, Rm 12N246, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA. cardonea@mail.nih.gov
Abstract:
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-mediated angiogenesis is thought to play a critical role in tumor growth and metastasis. Consequently, anti-VEGF therapies are being actively investigated as potential anti-cancer treatments, either as alternatives or adjuncts to conventional chemo or radiation therapy. Among the techniques used to block the VEGF pathway are: 1) neutralizing monoclonal antibodies against VEGF or its receptor, 2) small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors of VEGF receptors, 3) soluble VEGF receptors which act as decoy receptors for VEGF, and 4) ribozymes which specifically target VEGF mRNA. Recent evidence from phase III clinical trials led to the approval of bevacizumab, an anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody, by the FDA as first line therapy in metastatic colorectal carcinoma in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents. However, may challenges still remain, and the role of anti-VEGF therapy in the treatment of other solid tumors remains to be elucidated. The aim of this article is to review the progress of clinical investigations involving VEGF inhibitors in the treatment of different types of solid tumors.
Insights
Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapies show promise in treating solid tumors by inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis. Clinical trials are exploring various VEGF inhibitors to determine their efficacy across different cancer types.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) drives tumor angiogenesis, crucial for tumor expansion and metastasis.
- Anti-VEGF therapies are investigated as cancer treatments, complementing chemotherapy and radiation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review clinical investigations of VEGF inhibitors in treating various solid tumors.
- To assess the progress and potential of anti-VEGF strategies in oncology.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical trial data for VEGF inhibitors.
- Analysis of different anti-VEGF therapeutic approaches, including monoclonal antibodies, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, soluble receptors, and ribozymes.
Main Results:
- Bevacizumab, an anti-VEGF antibody, is FDA-approved for metastatic colorectal cancer in combination therapy.
- Ongoing research evaluates the role of anti-VEGF therapy in other solid tumors.
Conclusions:
- Anti-VEGF therapy represents a significant advancement in cancer treatment, with bevacizumab demonstrating success in specific indications.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the efficacy and application of VEGF inhibitors across a broader spectrum of solid tumors.
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