title: The Notch ligand Delta-like 4 (DLL4) as a target in angiogenesis-based cancer therapy?
abstract: Angiogenesis is a complex multistep process by which new capillary structures arise from pre-existing vessels in response to angiogenic stimuli. This process plays a key role during tumorigenesis because the vascular network within the tumor enables malignant cells to establish distant metastases. Thus, it is not surprising that targeting tumors with angiogenesis-based therapy remains a significant area of preclinical and clinical studies. One of the most prominent factors considered as a promising target in such therapy is the Notch ligand Delta-like 4 (DLL4). Emerging evidence suggests that blockade of DLL4 in tumors results in excessive but non-productive angiogenesis which affects tumor growth, even in tumors which are insensitive to anti-VEGF therapy. Nevertheless, the careful evaluation of adverse effects on normal organs' physiology in relation to therapeutic doses of DLL4 inhibitors will be critical for advancement of DLL4 blocking agents in clinical practice.
authors.affiliation: Chair and Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland.
authors.forename: Marlena
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Brzozowa
authors.affiliation: Chair and Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland.
authors.forename: Romuald
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Wojnicz
authors.affiliation: Chair and Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland.
authors.forename: Grażyna
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Kowalczyk-Ziomek
authors.affiliation: Chair and Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland.
authors.forename: Krzysztof
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Helewski
keywords: DLL4; Notch signaling; angiogenesis; cancer therapy; tumor vasculature