Synopsis of angiogenesis inhibitors in oncology

Oncology (Williston Park). 2002 May;16(5 Suppl 4):14-22.

Abstract

Angiogenesis is a dynamic process essential for primary tumor growth and metastases. New insights into the basic understanding of the biologic processes responsible for angiogenesis have led to the characterization of potential therapeutic targets. Several strategies for the development of antiangiogenic therapeutic modalities have been employed, including agents that (1) decrease the activity of specific angiogenic factors, (2) decrease th$ activity of endothelial survival factors, (3) increase the activity of naturally occurring antiangiogenic agents, or (4) indirectly downregulate angiogenic and survivalfactor activity. Because antiangiogenic therapy is unlikely to induce tumor regression, the criteria for efficacy must be evaluated by means other than the standard response criteria used to evaluate cytotoxic chemotherapy. Further, the redundancy of molecules responsible for the angiogenic process suggests it is unlikely that a single antiangiogenic agent will provide prolonged inhibition of angiogenesis. Nevertheless, the understanding of the basic principles that drive tumor angiogenesis will lead to the development of therapies that will likely prolong survival without the toxicity associated with standard chemotherapy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Endothelial Growth Factors / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Endothelial Growth Factors / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Invasiveness
  • Neoplasms / blood supply
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / drug therapy*
  • Signal Transduction

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors
  • Endothelial Growth Factors