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Updated: May 23, 2026

Preparation Of Neovascular Tissues from Human Glioma Tissues for Quantitative Proteomics Analysis of Tumor Angiogenesis
Published on: March 20, 2026
Antiangiogenic therapies targeting the vascular endothelia growth factor signaling system
1Royal Melbourne Hospital, Western Hospital, and Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
Abstract:
Angiogenesis is critical to the growth of human tumors and the development of metastasis. Amongst the many proangiogenic mechanisms identified, the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling pathway has been implicated as the key regulator of tumor neovascularisation. Various therapeutic agents targeting the VEGF pathway have been successfully developed, with many now approved and in routine clinical use. In general, VEGF-mediated angiogenesis can be inhibited by 2 approaches: antibodies directed against VEGF ligands or VEGF receptors (VEGFRs) and tyrosine kinase inhibitors targeting the VEGFRs. Thus far, clinical benefits achieved with VEGF-targeted agents are limited by their modest efficacy and the development of resistance. With no shortage of drugs in development, the lack of well-validated biomarkers to predict for response or resistance to VEGF-directed therapies is now becoming a key factor limiting the further rational development of this class of anticancer agent. This review discusses the biology of VEGF signaling, the clinical efficacy of VEGF-targeting therapies, potential mechanisms of resistance, and emerging predictive biomarkers.
Insights
Targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway inhibits tumor growth but faces challenges with efficacy and resistance. Identifying predictive biomarkers is crucial for advancing VEGF-targeted cancer therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Angiogenesis, driven by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling, is essential for tumor growth and metastasis.
- VEGF-targeted therapies, including antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors, are clinically used to inhibit tumor neovascularization.
- Current VEGF-targeted agents show limited efficacy and are prone to resistance, hindering their full potential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biology of VEGF signaling in cancer.
- To discuss the clinical efficacy and resistance mechanisms of VEGF-targeted therapies.
- To explore emerging predictive biomarkers for improved therapeutic strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of VEGF signaling pathways.
- Analysis of clinical trial data for VEGF-targeted agents.
- Examination of molecular mechanisms underlying therapeutic resistance.
- Identification and evaluation of potential predictive biomarkers.
Main Results:
- VEGF pathway is a key regulator of tumor angiogenesis.
- VEGF-targeted therapies offer clinical benefits but are limited by modest efficacy and acquired resistance.
- Mechanisms of resistance include alternative signaling pathways and tumor microenvironment adaptations.
- Biomarkers are needed to predict patient response and resistance to VEGF-targeted treatments.
Conclusions:
- VEGF signaling is a critical target in oncology.
- Overcoming resistance and identifying predictive biomarkers are essential for optimizing VEGF-targeted cancer therapy.
- Further research into biomarkers will guide the rational development of next-generation anti-angiogenic agents.
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