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Updated: Jan 22, 2026

Generation and Expansion of Primary, Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Tumor Lines
Published on: April 21, 2022
Targeting angiogenesis for patients with unresectable malignant pleural mesothelioma
Anne Tsao1, Takashi Nakano2, Anna K Nowak3
1Department of Thoracic and Head and Neck Medical Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.
Abstract:
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a global health issue, the principal cause of which is exposure to asbestos. The prevalence is anticipated to rise over the next 2 decades, particularly in developing countries, due to the 30-50-year latency period between exposure to asbestos and carcinogenic development. Unresectable MPM has a poor prognosis and limited treatment options and, as such, there is a broad range of therapeutic targets of interest, including angiogenesis, immune checkpoints, mesothelin, as well as chemotherapeutic agents. Recently, the results of several randomized trials in the first-line setting combining antiangiogenic agents with chemotherapy have been reported. This review examines the scientific rationale for targeting angiogenesis in the treatment of unresectable MPM and analyzes recent clinical results with antiangiogenic agents in development (bevacizumab, nintedanib, and cediranib) for the management of MPM.
Insights
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a growing global health concern. This review explores targeting angiogenesis, a key process in cancer growth, as a promising therapeutic strategy for unresectable MPM.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a serious asbestos-related cancer.
- Its prevalence is expected to increase globally due to long latency periods.
- Unresectable MPM has limited treatment options and a poor prognosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the scientific rationale for targeting angiogenesis in unresectable MPM.
- To analyze recent clinical trial results of antiangiogenic agents in MPM management.
Main Methods:
- Review of scientific literature and clinical trial data.
- Analysis of therapeutic targets including angiogenesis, immune checkpoints, and mesothelin.
- Focus on first-line treatment strategies combining antiangiogenic agents with chemotherapy.
Main Results:
- Angiogenesis is a key therapeutic target in MPM.
- Several antiangiogenic agents (bevacizumab, nintedanib, cediranib) are under investigation.
- Combination therapy with chemotherapy shows potential in recent trials.
Conclusions:
- Targeting angiogenesis offers a promising avenue for treating unresectable MPM.
- Further clinical evaluation of antiangiogenic agents is warranted.
- Combination therapies may improve outcomes for MPM patients.
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