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Updated: May 22, 2026

Evaluating the Angiogenetic Properties of Ovarian Cancer Stem-Like Cells using the Three-Dimensional Co-Culture System, NICO-1
Published on: December 5, 2020
Turning promise into progress for antiangiogenic agents in epithelial ovarian cancer
Arne R M van der Bilt1, Elisabeth G E de Vries, Steven de Jong
1Department of Medical Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
Despite efforts to improve chemotherapeutic efficacy in epithelial ovarian cancer, outcome for patients with advanced disease has remained unchanged since the introduction of standard carboplatin and paclitaxel. Interest has therefore shifted toward molecularly targeted therapies that interfere with important features of ovarian carcinogenesis, such as angiogenesis. Several angiogenesis inhibitors, targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) ligands (bevacizumab, VEGF-Trap) or their receptors (VEGFR-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitors) have been clinically evaluated. These agents demonstrated efficacy in phase II clinical trials. Results from phase III trials, in which bevacizumab was added to standard frontline chemotherapy, show a modest effect. Although the initial expectations for angiogenesis inhibitors have been tempered, further research is warranted to define their precise place in the treatment of ovarian cancer. This review summarizes the performed and ongoing studies with regard to angiogenesis inhibitors in ovarian cancer, and the available data on biomarkers for response prediction. Preclinical studies evaluating alternative angiogenesis inhibitors will also be discussed.
Insights
Angiogenesis inhibitors show modest effects in advanced ovarian cancer, necessitating further research. Biomarkers are crucial for predicting patient response to these targeted therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Epithelial ovarian cancer outcomes remain poor with standard chemotherapy.
- Targeted therapies, particularly anti-angiogenesis agents, are being explored.
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) pathway is a key target in ovarian carcinogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current and ongoing studies of angiogenesis inhibitors in ovarian cancer.
- To discuss biomarkers for predicting response to anti-angiogenesis therapies.
- To explore preclinical data on novel angiogenesis inhibitors.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical trials (Phase II and III) involving angiogenesis inhibitors.
- Analysis of data on bevacizumab and VEGFR-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
- Inclusion of preclinical studies and biomarker research.
Main Results:
- Angiogenesis inhibitors demonstrated efficacy in Phase II trials.
- Bevacizumab added to chemotherapy showed a modest effect in Phase III trials.
- Initial expectations for these agents have been moderated.
Conclusions:
- Further research is essential to establish the role of angiogenesis inhibitors in ovarian cancer treatment.
- Biomarker identification is critical for personalized treatment strategies.
- Ongoing and preclinical studies may offer new therapeutic avenues.
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