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Updated: May 16, 2026

Development and Maintenance of a Preclinical Patient Derived Tumor Xenograft Model for the Investigation of Novel Anti-Cancer Therapies
09:29

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Emerging VEGF-receptor inhibitors for colorectal cancer

Erika Martinelli1, Teresa Troiani, Floriana Morgillo

  • 1Oncologia Medica and Immunologia Clinica, Dipartimento Medico-Chirurgico di Internistica Clinica e Sperimentale F. Magrassi e A. Lanzara, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Napoli, Italia. erikamartinelli75@yahoo.it

Expert Opinion on Emerging Drugs
|December 11, 2012
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Targeted therapies, including anti-angiogenic agents like bevacizumab, have advanced metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) treatment. Further research is essential to improve overall survival for mCRC patients.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) treatment has been significantly improved by targeted agents.
  • Understanding the angiogenic pathway in colorectal cancer (CRC) has led to new therapeutic strategies.
  • Bevacizumab, an anti-angiogenic agent, demonstrated improved progression-free and overall survival in mCRC when combined with chemotherapy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent findings on the VEGF signaling pathway in CRC.
  • To discuss novel therapeutic drugs for mCRC currently in clinical trials.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on the VEGF signaling pathway.
  • Analysis of clinical trial data for new anti-angiogenic agents in mCRC.

Main Results:

  • Several anti-angiogenic agents are under investigation for mCRC.
  • Some Phase III trials yielded negative results, while others led to new drug approvals.
  • Aflibercept and regorafenib are newly approved anti-angiogenic agents for mCRC based on positive trial findings.

Conclusions:

  • Despite advances, median overall survival for mCRC patients remains a challenge.
  • Validation of predictive biomarkers and optimal combination treatments are crucial for maximizing clinical impact.
  • Continued research and investigation are necessary for further advancements in mCRC therapy.

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