Angiogenesis Signaling in Retinoblastoma: Prognostic and Therapeutic Applications

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Oncology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Angiogenesis is crucial in retinoblastoma (RB) metastasis and pathophysiology.
• Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a key regulator of angiogenesis in RB.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of angiogenesis in retinoblastoma prognostication, treatment response, and therapeutic strategies.
• To explore the potential of VEGF as a biomarker and antiangiogenic agents as therapies for RB.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies linking angiogenesis to RB.
• Analysis of VEGF levels in relation to RB prognosis and treatment outcomes.
• Evaluation of antiangiogenic agents in RB models and clinical contexts.

Main Results:

• High VEGF levels correlate with poor chemotherapy response, local invasion, and reduced survival in RB patients.
• Decreasing VEGF predicts vitreous seed regression after chemotherapy.
• Antiangiogenic agents show promise but monotherapy sufficiency for RB is limited.

Conclusions:

• VEGF is a significant prognostic and predictive biomarker in retinoblastoma.
• Antiangiogenic therapies, combined with current strategies, may improve RB patient outcomes.
• Further research on liquid biopsies and integrated approaches is warranted.