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Updated: May 7, 2026

Monitoring Functionality and Morphology of Vasculature Recruited by Factors Secreted by Fast-growing Tumor-generating Cells
09:03

Monitoring Functionality and Morphology of Vasculature Recruited by Factors Secreted by Fast-growing Tumor-generating Cells

Published on: November 23, 2014

Interleukin-6: an angiogenic target in solid tumours

Kathryn Middleton1, Joanna Jones1, Zarnie Lwin1

  • 1Mater Adult Hospital, Department of Medical Oncology, Raymond Terrace, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia.

Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology
|September 14, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Resistance to anti-angiogenic drugs like anti-VEGF antibodies is common. Targeting interleukin-6 (IL-6) may overcome this resistance, improving cancer treatment outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Anti-angiogenic agents targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) have improved survival in various cancers.
  • Acquired resistance to anti-VEGF therapy is a significant clinical challenge, leading to disease progression.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in tumor angiogenesis and its link to anti-VEGF therapy resistance.
  • To explore the potential of anti-IL-6 therapies as a strategy to overcome resistance and improve cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of preclinical and clinical studies on IL-6, VEGF, and anti-angiogenic therapy resistance.
  • Analysis of the mechanisms by which IL-6 signaling influences tumor microenvironment and angiogenesis.

Main Results:

  • IL-6 signaling promotes pro-angiogenic effects within the tumor microenvironment.
  • Elevated IL-6 levels correlate with treatment failure in patients receiving anti-VEGF therapies.
  • IL-6 blockade demonstrates potential in preclinical models to enhance anti-angiogenic efficacy.

Conclusions:

  • IL-6 is a key mediator in tumor angiogenesis and a driver of resistance to anti-VEGF therapy.
  • Targeting IL-6, through anti-IL-6 therapies, represents a promising strategy to enhance response to anti-angiogenic treatments.
  • Anti-IL-6 agents could be used in combination with anti-VEGF drugs or as salvage therapy for refractory cancers.
Keywords:
AngiogenesisBevacizumabHIF-1αIL-6STAT3SiltuximabSunitinibVEGF

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