Antiangiogenic approach in soft-tissue sarcomas.
Soft-tissue sarcomas (STS) are a group of more than 50 malignancies characterized by their rarity. The most effective treatments available only achieve a response rate (RR) of around 20%. Therefore, new therapeutic strategies are needed. Neoangiogenesis is one of the most fundamental mechanisms in cancer and many studies suggest that it also plays a crucial role in STS. Positive results from two Phase III trials in STS with drugs that target angiogenesis have recently been reported, showing an increase in progression-free survival. These data, although promising, are still insufficient and further investigations are needed. STS are unusual among solid tumors, in which single agent angiogenesis inhibitors produce a significant benefit. Unfortunately, we are currently not able to reliably define according to the histological subtype who are the patients that may benefit from this strategy. Moreover, it is clear that single agent treatment is insufficient, hence the current focus is on combination studies.
The Royal Marsden Hospital, Sarcoma Unit, Fulham Road, SW3 6JJ, London, UK. Juan.Martin@rmh.nhs.uk
Juan
J
Martin-Liberal
Ian
I
Judson
Charlotte
C
Benson
D020533:Angiogenesis Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D009389:Neovascularization, Pathologic / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012509:Sarcoma / Q000188:drug therapy*
D020533:Angiogenesis Inhibitors