The Current Role of Antiangiogenics in Colorectal Cancer
Debora Basile1, Paola Di Nardo2, Maria Grazia Daffinà3
1Unit of Medical Oncology, San Giovanni Di Dio Hospital-Crotone, 88900 Crotone, Italy.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|December 11, 2025
Summary
Metastatic colorectal carcinoma (mCRC) treatment is evolving with novel anti-angiogenic agents like fruquintinib. Combining these with immunotherapy shows promise for improving patient outcomes in advanced colorectal cancer.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Research
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is a leading global cancer, with a significant proportion presenting as metastatic (mCRC) at diagnosis or developing recurrence.
- Standard mCRC treatment involves chemotherapy plus molecularly targeted agents, with anti-angiogenic drugs playing a key role.
- Tumor angiogenesis, hypoxia, and immune response are interconnected, influencing cancer progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current therapeutic landscape of metastatic colorectal carcinoma.
- To highlight emerging therapeutic strategies, including novel anti-angiogenic agents and combinations.
- To discuss the potential of innovative treatments to improve outcomes for mCRC patients.
Main Methods:
- This is a narrative review synthesizing existing evidence on mCRC treatment.
- Focuses on the role of anti-angiogenic agents, immunotherapy, and novel molecules.
- Discusses clinical efficacy data for emerging therapies like fruquintinib.
Main Results:
- Anti-angiogenic agents are integral to mCRC management.
- Combinations of anti-angiogenic agents with immune checkpoint inhibitors show promise.
- The novel anti-angiogenic agent fruquintinib has demonstrated clinical efficacy in mCRC.
Conclusions:
- The therapeutic landscape for mCRC is undergoing significant evolution.
- Innovative combinations and agents, such as fruquintinib, offer new hope for patients.
- Further research is needed to address remaining challenges and optimize treatment strategies.
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