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Updated: Feb 26, 2026
A Simple Bioassay for the Evaluation of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors
Published on: March 15, 2016
VEGF Inhibitors in Hematologic Cancers and Hypertension/Cardiac Effects
Jatin Thukral1, Harbir Kaur2, Ninaad Sindhwani3
1From the Department of Internal Medicine, New York Medical College/Landmark Medical Centre, Woonsocket, RI.
Abstract:
The therapeutic landscape of hematologic malignancies has undergone a paradigm shift with the increasing incorporation of targeted therapies, including inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling. While VEGF-directed agents have historically been developed and deployed in solid tumors, their application in hematologic cancers-particularly multiple myeloma, select leukemias, and rare lymphomas-has expanded in investigational and clinical settings. VEGF is fundamental to angiogenesis, maintenance of endothelial integrity, and regulation of vascular tone. As a result, therapeutic inhibition of VEGF signaling is associated with a characteristic spectrum of cardiovascular adverse effects. These include hypertension, endothelial dysfunction, heart failure, thromboembolic complications, and renal injury, all of which present important clinical challenges in patients with hematologic malignancies. This population frequently has additional vulnerability due to factors such as cytopenias, preexisting renal impairment, and prior exposure to cardiotoxic anticancer therapies. This review aims to provide a cardio-oncology-oriented overview of VEGF biology, the range of VEGF-targeted agents used in hematologic cancers, and the underlying mechanisms driving their cardiovascular toxicities.
Insights
Targeted therapies inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are transforming hematologic cancer treatment. However, VEGF inhibitors can cause significant cardiovascular toxicities, posing challenges for vulnerable patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardio-oncology
- Hematologic Malignancies
- Targeted Cancer Therapies
Background:
- Hematologic malignancies are increasingly treated with targeted therapies.
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) signaling inhibitors, initially developed for solid tumors, are now used in hematologic cancers.
- VEGF plays crucial roles in angiogenesis and vascular integrity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review VEGF biology in the context of hematologic cancers.
- To discuss VEGF-targeted agents used in treating these malignancies.
- To outline the mechanisms of cardiovascular toxicities associated with these agents.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focused on VEGF signaling in hematologic malignancies.
- Analysis of cardiovascular adverse events associated with VEGF inhibitors.
- Examination of patient vulnerabilities in this population.
Main Results:
- VEGF inhibition leads to predictable cardiovascular toxicities like hypertension and heart failure.
- Hematologic cancer patients may have increased susceptibility to these toxicities.
- Understanding these mechanisms is key for clinical management.
Conclusions:
- VEGF inhibitors offer new therapeutic avenues for hematologic cancers.
- Cardiovascular adverse effects are a significant clinical challenge.
- Cardio-oncology strategies are essential for managing patients receiving VEGF-targeted therapies.
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