Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 24, 2026
Preparation Of Neovascular Tissues from Human Glioma Tissues for Quantitative Proteomics Analysis of Tumor Angiogenesis
Published on: March 20, 2026
Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy for malignant glioma
Elizabeth R Gerstner1, A Gregory Sorensen, Rakesh K Jain
1Stephen E. and Catherine Pappas Center for Neuro-Oncology, Yawkey 9E, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA. egerstner@partners.org
Abstract:
Glioblastomas are among the most vascular tumors because they oversecrete vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a potent stimulator of angiogenesis. Consequently, new drug regimens are being developed to target the VEGF signaling pathway in an attempt to halt tumor growth. Antibodies that bind VEGF, decoy molecules that sequester VEGF, and small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors that block receptor activation are being tested. Preliminary results with these agents have been promising, with prolonged progression-free survival reported. The antipermeability effects of anti-VEGF agents have important consequences for tumor imaging and for patient quality of life by decreasing corticosteroid dependence. However, because most patients eventually relapse, more work is needed to understand mechanisms of disease escape, including vascular co-option of native brain blood vessels.
Insights
New glioblastoma treatments targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) show promise in halting tumor growth and improving survival. Further research is needed to overcome eventual tumor relapse and resistance mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Vascular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Glioblastomas exhibit high vascularity due to excessive secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).
- VEGF is a critical stimulator of angiogenesis, promoting tumor growth and vascularization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate novel therapeutic strategies targeting the VEGF signaling pathway in glioblastomas.
- To assess the efficacy of anti-VEGF agents in prolonging progression-free survival and improving patient quality of life.
Main Methods:
- Testing of drug regimens including antibodies that bind VEGF, decoy molecules, and tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
- Evaluation of preliminary clinical results and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- Anti-VEGF agents demonstrated promising preliminary results, leading to prolonged progression-free survival.
- These agents showed anti-permeability effects, impacting tumor imaging and reducing corticosteroid dependence.
Conclusions:
- Targeting the VEGF pathway is a viable strategy for glioblastoma treatment.
- Understanding mechanisms of disease escape, such as vascular co-option, is crucial for overcoming treatment resistance and improving long-term outcomes.
