Antiangiogenic therapy for cancer: an update

Farbod Shojaei1, Napoleone Ferrara

  • 1Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA.

Insights

Antiangiogenic therapies targeting vascular endothelial growth factor-A have revolutionized cancer treatment. This review covers clinical progress and mechanisms of resistance to these vital anti-cancer drugs.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Angiogenesis regulators have led to FDA-approved antiangiogenic drugs, initiating a new era in cancer therapy.
  • Vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) is a key regulator of angiogenesis and a primary target for antiangiogenic therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review clinical progress in targeting VEGF-A for cancer therapy.
  • To discuss mechanisms of refractoriness and resistance to antiangiogenic therapies.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of clinical trials and preclinical studies.
  • Analysis of cellular and molecular mechanisms of antiangiogenic drug resistance.

Main Results:

  • Significant clinical advancements have been made in targeting VEGF-A.
  • Emerging insights into resistance mechanisms are crucial for improving treatment efficacy.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting VEGF-A remains a cornerstone of modern cancer therapy.
  • Understanding and overcoming resistance are critical for future therapeutic development.

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