[The Role of Anti‒Angiogenic Therapy in Tumor Immune Microenvironment]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Angiogenesis, crucial in tumor biology, is primarily driven by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).
• VEGF not only promotes tumor growth via new blood vessel formation but also significantly influences the tumor immune microenvironment.
• VEGF's role extends to impairing immune cell function and promoting immunosuppressive cells, contributing to tumor immune evasion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the effects of anti-VEGF therapy on tumor immunity.
• To evaluate the efficacy of combining anti-VEGF therapy with immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).
• To discuss future prospects of anti-VEGF therapy in cancer treatment based on preclinical and clinical findings.

Main Methods:

• Review of preclinical models and clinical studies on anti-VEGF therapy.
• Analysis of VEGF's impact on dendritic cell maturation and antigen-presenting capacity.
• Investigation of VEGF's role in mobilizing immunosuppressive cells (Tregs, MDSCs) and inhibiting effector T cells.

Main Results:

• VEGF significantly impacts the tumor immune microenvironment by suppressing anti-tumor immunity.
• Anti-VEGF therapy demonstrates potential in modulating the tumor immune landscape.
• Combination therapy of anti-VEGF agents with ICIs may enhance anti-tumor responses.

Conclusions:

• VEGF plays a multifaceted role in cancer, influencing both angiogenesis and immune evasion.
• Targeting VEGF offers a strategy to overcome tumor-induced immunosuppression.
• Combining anti-VEGF therapy with ICIs represents a promising avenue for improving cancer treatment efficacy.