Antiangiogenic therapy for glioblastoma
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Updated: May 25, 2026
Preparation Of Neovascular Tissues from Human Glioma Tissues for Quantitative Proteomics Analysis of Tumor Angiogenesis
Published on: March 20, 2026
Elizabeth R Gerstner1, Tracy T Batchelor
1Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA. egerstner@partners.org
Abstract:
Glioblastomas are among the most vascular tumors due to the expression of a variety of proangiogenic factors. New drug regimens are being developed to target angiogenesis in an attempt to arrest tumor growth. In particular, the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway has been a prime drug target. Preliminary results with anti-VEGF agents have been promising with prolonged progression-free survival reported. In addition, the antipermeability effects of anti-VEGF agents have important consequences for tumor imaging and for patient quality of life by decreasing corticosteroid dependence. Unfortunately, the response to anti-VEGF therapy is transient, and the majority of patients eventually relapsed, so more work is needed to understand the mechanisms of tumor escape.
Insights
Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents show promise in treating glioblastomas by improving progression-free survival. However, tumor escape mechanisms necessitate further research for sustained therapeutic efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Biology
- Medical Research
Background:
- Glioblastomas exhibit high vascularity due to proangiogenic factors.
- Targeting tumor angiogenesis is a key strategy for inhibiting glioblastoma growth.
- The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway is a significant focus for anti-cancer drug development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of anti-VEGF agents in glioblastoma treatment.
- To explore the impact of anti-VEGF therapy on progression-free survival and tumor permeability.
- To investigate the mechanisms of tumor escape following anti-VEGF treatment.
Main Methods:
- Utilized anti-VEGF agents as a therapeutic strategy.
- Monitored progression-free survival in patients.
- Assessed the anti-permeability effects of the agents.
- Studied mechanisms of tumor resistance and relapse.
Main Results:
- Preliminary data indicate prolonged progression-free survival with anti-VEGF therapy.
- Anti-VEGF agents demonstrated anti-permeability effects, improving tumor imaging and reducing corticosteroid dependence.
- Tumor response to anti-VEGF therapy was transient, with most patients eventually relapsing.
Conclusions:
- Anti-VEGF therapy offers a promising avenue for glioblastoma treatment, enhancing survival and quality of life.
- Understanding and overcoming tumor escape mechanisms is crucial for developing more effective and durable therapies.
- Further research is required to address transient responses and achieve long-term disease control.
