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Updated: Jun 23, 2026

Cerenkov Luminescence Imaging (CLI) for Cancer Therapy Monitoring
Published on: November 13, 2012
Current status of cediranib: the rapid development of a novel anti-angiogenic therapy
Colin R Lindsay1, Iain Rj MacPherson, Jim Cassidy
1Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, 1053 Great Western Road, Glasgow, G12 0YN, UK. c.lindsay@beatson.gla.ac.uk
Abstract:
Angiogenesis, the process whereby tumors develop new blood vessels to facilitate growth and metastasis, is a pivotal event in tumorigenesis. It is tightly regulated by the VEGF system. Cediranib (AZD2171, Recentin; AstraZeneca, London, UK) is a novel and potent small-molecule inhibitor of VEGF signaling, with activity against the three VEGF receptors, as well as other targets. This article provides a comprehensive and up-to-date synopsis of all pertinent preclinical and clinical studies detailing this promising new therapy.
Insights
Cediranib is a new drug that blocks tumor blood vessel growth (angiogenesis) by targeting the VEGF system. This review summarizes preclinical and clinical studies of cediranib as a promising cancer therapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Tumor growth and metastasis depend on angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels.
- The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) system is a key regulator of angiogenesis.
- Targeting VEGF signaling is a validated strategy in cancer therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of preclinical and clinical studies on cediranib (AZD2171).
- To summarize the efficacy and safety of cediranib as a VEGF inhibitor.
Main Methods:
- Review of published preclinical data on cediranib's mechanism of action and in vitro/in vivo activity.
- Analysis of clinical trial data assessing cediranib's safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetic profile.
- Synthesis of information on cediranib's activity against multiple VEGF receptors and other targets.
Main Results:
- Cediranib demonstrates potent inhibition of VEGF receptors and downstream signaling pathways.
- Preclinical studies show significant anti-tumor activity and inhibition of angiogenesis.
- Clinical trials indicate a manageable safety profile and varying degrees of efficacy across different cancer types.
Conclusions:
- Cediranib is a potent inhibitor of angiogenesis with demonstrated preclinical and clinical activity.
- Further investigation is warranted to optimize cediranib's role in cancer treatment regimens.
- Cediranib represents a promising therapeutic option targeting the VEGF pathway in oncology.
