Antiangiogenic cancer treatment: The great discovery and greater complexity (Review)

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Vascular Biology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Tumor angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels in tumors, is a critical hallmark of cancer.
• Antiangiogenic agents, primarily targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling, have shown promise in cancer therapy.
• Despite successes, the complexity of angiogenesis and the emergence of resistance necessitate further research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of tumor angiogenesis and antiangiogenic therapies.
• To explore novel strategies beyond VEGF targeting and the role of natural compounds.
• To address the challenges of resistance and identify needs for optimizing treatment schedules.

Main Methods:

• Review of preclinical and clinical observations on antiangiogenic therapy.
• Analysis of molecular factors involved in tumor angiogenesis.
• Examination of the paradoxical effects of antiangiogenic drugs on tumor vasculature.

Main Results:

• Antiangiogenic therapy, initially aimed at vessel destruction, paradoxically normalizes tumor vasculature, enhancing chemotherapy delivery.
• Resistance to antiangiogenic therapy is a significant clinical obstacle.
• Identification of the need for biomarkers and methods to determine optimal therapeutic timing.

Conclusions:

• Targeting tumor angiogenesis is a vital strategy in cancer treatment.
• Overcoming resistance and understanding the nuances of vascular normalization are key to improving patient outcomes.
• Further research into novel antiangiogenic agents and predictive biomarkers is essential.