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Updated: Jun 26, 2026

Monitoring Functionality and Morphology of Vasculature Recruited by Factors Secreted by Fast-growing Tumor-generating Cells
Published on: November 23, 2014
Clinical approaches toward tumor angiogenesis: past, present and future
Yasuyuki Fujita1, Riichiro Abe, Hiroshi Shimizu
1Department of Dermatology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Japan. yfujita@med.hokudai.ac.jp
Abstract:
Angiogenesis is a complex process which is critical for the growth, invasion, and metastasis of tumors. In the past ten years numerous new agents have been developed as angiogenesis inhibitors. Angiogenesis inhibitors can be classified by their targeted area of the angiogenic process; (1) VEGF and its receptors VEGFR (e.g. Bevacizumab); (2) tyrosine kinases within endothelial cells (Sunitinib); (3) proliferation of endothelial cells (Endostatin); (4) MMPs (Marimastat); (5) intercellular interactions via integrins (Cilengitide) and (6) combinations of the above mechanisms (Thalidomide). Some showed anti-tumor effects with objective responses and stable disease, and some disappeared from clinical use due to unexpected side effects or insufficient efficacies. Further investigations of combined therapies including angiogenesis inhibitors will shed light on the treatment of advanced and metastasized malignancies.
Insights
Angiogenesis inhibitors target tumor growth and spread. While some agents show efficacy, further research into combined therapies is crucial for treating advanced cancers.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, is vital for tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis.
- Numerous angiogenesis inhibitors targeting various aspects of this process have been developed over the last decade.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and classify existing angiogenesis inhibitors based on their mechanisms of action.
- To evaluate the clinical outcomes and limitations of current angiogenesis-targeting agents.
- To highlight the potential of combination therapies for advanced and metastatic malignancies.
Main Methods:
- Classification of angiogenesis inhibitors based on their molecular targets within the angiogenic pathway.
- Review of clinical data regarding the efficacy and side effects of selected agents.
- Analysis of the role of combination therapies in cancer treatment.
Main Results:
- Angiogenesis inhibitors target key pathways including VEGF/VEGFR, tyrosine kinases, endothelial cell proliferation, MMPs, and integrins.
- Clinical responses varied, with some agents demonstrating anti-tumor effects while others were withdrawn due to adverse events or lack of efficacy.
- Combinations of inhibitors, like Thalidomide, showed multifaceted mechanisms.
Conclusions:
- Angiogenesis inhibitors represent a significant advancement in cancer therapy, targeting critical tumor growth mechanisms.
- The efficacy and safety profiles of individual agents necessitate careful patient selection and ongoing research.
- Investigating combined therapeutic strategies holds promise for improving outcomes in advanced and metastatic cancers.
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