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Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Development and Maintenance of a Preclinical Patient Derived Tumor Xenograft Model for the Investigation of Novel Anti-Cancer Therapies
Published on: September 30, 2016
Vascular endothelial growth factor and epidermal growth factor signaling pathways as therapeutic targets for
Thomas Winder1, Heinz-Josef Lenz
1Division of Medical Oncology, University of Southern California/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA.
Abstract:
Treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) has developed considerably over the past decade, especially in the areas of targeted therapeutics and biomarker development. Multiple cellular pathways influence the growth and metastatic potential of CRC. Targeted therapies have been designed to interfere with specific molecular events in pathways that mediate tumor growth and progression. Preclinical and clinical studies have shown that the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are valid therapeutic targets for patients with CRC. Monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors have been developed to target EGFR, VEGF, and VEGF receptors (VEGFRs) and are important additions to CRC treatment options. We review the most recent data on the VEGF and EGFR signaling pathways and therapeutic reagents designed to target them, provide insights into their mechanisms, and describe results from recent clinical trials.
Insights
Targeted therapies targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathways represent significant advancements in colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment, offering new options for patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment has advanced with targeted therapies and biomarker development.
- Cellular pathways significantly influence CRC growth and metastasis.
- Specific molecular targets, including EGFR and VEGF, are crucial in CRC progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent data on VEGF and EGFR signaling pathways in CRC.
- To discuss therapeutic reagents targeting these pathways.
- To provide insights into mechanisms of action and clinical trial results.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical and clinical studies.
- Analysis of data on monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
- Examination of signaling pathway mechanisms and clinical outcomes.
Main Results:
- EGFR and VEGF are validated therapeutic targets in CRC.
- Monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors targeting EGFR, VEGF, and VEGFRs are effective.
- These targeted agents are important additions to the CRC treatment armamentarium.
Conclusions:
- Targeted therapies against EGFR and VEGF pathways have significantly improved CRC treatment.
- Understanding these pathways is key to developing effective therapeutic strategies.
- Ongoing research and clinical trials continue to refine these treatment options.
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