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Updated: Jul 3, 2025

Programming Stem Cells for Therapeutic Angiogenesis Using Biodegradable Polymeric Nanoparticles
Published on: September 27, 2013
Synergistic therapeutic strategies and engineered nanoparticles for anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy
Asmaa F Khafaga1, Mohamed M S Gaballa2, Reham Karam3
1Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Edfina 22758, Egypt.
Abstract:
Angiogenesis is one of the defining characteristics of cancer. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is crucial for the development of angiogenesis. A growing interest in cancer therapy is being caused by the widespread use of antiangiogenic drugs in treating several types of human cancer. However, this therapeutic approach can worsen resistance, invasion, and overall survival. As we proceed, refining combination strategies and addressing the constraint of targeted treatments are paramount. Therefore, major challenges in using novel combinations of antiangiogenic agents with cytotoxic treatments are currently focused on illustrating the potential of synergistic therapeutic strategies, alongside advancements in nanomedicine and gene therapy, present opportunities for more precise interference with angiogenesis pathways and tumor environments. Nanoparticles have the potential to regulate several crucial activities and improve several drug limitations such as lack of selectivity, non-targeted cytotoxicity, insufficient drug delivery at tumor sites, and multi-drug resistance based on their unique features. The goal of this updated review is to illustrate the enormous potential of novel synergistic therapeutic strategies and the targeted nanoparticles as an alternate strategy for t treating a variety of tumors employing antiangiogenic therapy.
Insights
Antiangiogenic therapies targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) show promise in cancer treatment but face challenges. Novel synergistic strategies combining these with nanomedicine offer improved tumor targeting and overcoming drug resistance.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Biotechnology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Angiogenesis, driven by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), is a hallmark of cancer.
- Antiangiogenic therapies are increasingly used in cancer treatment but can lead to resistance and poor outcomes.
- Refining combination strategies and targeted treatments are crucial for improving efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review novel synergistic therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment.
- To explore the potential of nanomedicine in antiangiogenic therapy.
- To address limitations of current antiangiogenic approaches.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on antiangiogenic therapies, combination strategies, nanomedicine, and gene therapy.
- Analysis of nanoparticle capabilities in drug delivery and overcoming resistance.
- Focus on synergistic therapeutic approaches targeting angiogenesis.
Main Results:
- Antiangiogenic therapy faces challenges including resistance, invasion, and limited survival.
- Nanoparticles offer potential solutions for selectivity, targeted delivery, and overcoming multi-drug resistance.
- Synergistic strategies combining antiangiogenic agents with cytotoxic treatments show promise.
Conclusions:
- Novel synergistic therapeutic strategies, particularly those integrating nanomedicine, present a promising alternative for cancer treatment.
- Targeted nanoparticles can enhance the efficacy of antiangiogenic therapy by improving drug delivery and overcoming resistance.
- Further research into these advanced strategies is essential for developing more effective cancer treatments.
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