Angiogenesis inhibitors in the treatment of cancer.
The field of cancer research has seen a marked shift in the past decade towards the exploration and development of non-conventional antitumour agents. One of the most widely studied approaches to therapy during this period has been that of antiangiogenesis. The published clinical trials and subsequent FDA approval (in February 2004) of the anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) monoclonal antibody bevacizumab (Avastin, Genentech) for the treatment of colorectal cancer marked a milestone for antiangiogenesis therapy. Currently, preclinical and clinical research involving therapeutic targeting of VEGF and other mediators of angiogenesis continues in multiple tumour types. In addition to colorectal cancer, angiogenesis inhibitors are being investigated in the treatment of renal cell carcinoma, head and neck carcinoma, lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and a variety of haematological malignancies. This article will discuss the background of antiangiogenesis research, preclinical and clinical data relating to the use of bevacizumab in the treatment of colorectal cancer, other completed clinical trials involving antiangiogenesis agents, and the potential future utility of these agents in the treatment of malignancy.
Rhee
Jay
J
University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Department of GI Medical Oncology, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Unit 426 Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Hoff
Paulo M
PM
D020533:Angiogenesis Inhibitors / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000378:metabolism; D047428:Protein Kinase Inhibitors / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011505:Protein-Tyrosine Kinases / Q000378:metabolism; D042461:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors / Q000378:metabolism
D020533:Angiogenesis Inhibitors; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D047428:Protein Kinase Inhibitors; D042461:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A; D011505:Protein-Tyrosine Kinases