Antiangiogenesis therapy: an update after the first decade

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Science
• Oncology
• Vascular Biology

Background:

• Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, is crucial for development but implicated in diseases like cancer and macular degeneration.
• Pathological angiogenesis affects nearly 10% of the global population, driving significant unmet medical needs.
• Judah Folkman's 1971 hypothesis linked tumor growth to angiogenesis, initiating research into antiangiogenic therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the progress in antiangiogenesis therapy over its first decade.
• To identify validated and potential therapeutic targets for future drug development in angiogenesis-related diseases.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of antiangiogenesis therapy research and clinical trials.
• Analysis of approved antiangiogenic drugs and their mechanisms of action.
• Discussion of therapeutic targets and future drug development strategies.

Main Results:

• The first antiangiogenic drug, bevacizumab, targeting vascular endothelial growth factor, was approved in 2004, marking a new therapeutic era.
• Several new antiangiogenic agents have since been approved, with ongoing clinical trials exploring novel options.
• Significant advancements have been made in understanding and targeting the pathways involved in pathological angiogenesis.

Conclusions:

• Antiangiogenesis therapy has emerged as a critical treatment modality for various diseases, particularly cancer.
• Continued research into validated and novel targets promises further advancements in antiangiogenesis drug development.
• The field is rapidly evolving, with ongoing efforts to expand therapeutic options and improve patient outcomes.