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Updated: May 31, 2026

Modeling Spontaneous Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma (mRCC) in Mice Following Nephrectomy
Published on: April 29, 2014
Vascular endothelial growth factor-targeted therapies in advanced renal cell carcinoma
Laurence Albiges1, Mohamed Salem, Brian Rini
1Medical Oncology Department, Institut Gustave Roussy, 114 Rue Edouard Vaillant, Villejuif, France.
Abstract:
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is, to date, the key element in the pathogenesis of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). VEGF pathway activation is responsible for the recruitment, migration, and expansion of endothelial cells, with this angiogenesis tumor model being characteristic of RCC. Different strategies have been developed for almost a decade to block the VEGF pathway in this setting. Four different compounds were approved for metastatic RCC (mRCC) in the past 6 years: bevacizumab, sunitinib, sorafenib, and pazopanib. Axitinib and tivozanib are also promising compounds under evaluation. The revolution in the management and prognosis of patients with mRCC is ongoing.
Insights
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) drives renal cell carcinoma (RCC) progression. Therapies targeting the VEGF pathway have revolutionized metastatic RCC (mRCC) treatment and patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nephrology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is crucial in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) pathogenesis.
- VEGF pathway activation promotes angiogenesis, a hallmark of RCC tumor development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of VEGF in RCC.
- To discuss anti-VEGF therapies for metastatic RCC (mRCC).
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on VEGF in RCC pathogenesis.
- Analysis of approved and investigational anti-VEGF agents for mRCC.
Main Results:
- Four anti-VEGF compounds (bevacizumab, sunitinib, sorafenib, pazopanib) are approved for mRCC.
- Axitinib and tivozanib show promise in ongoing evaluations.
Conclusions:
- Targeting the VEGF pathway has significantly improved mRCC management.
- Ongoing research continues to advance treatment strategies for mRCC.
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