Tumoral angiogenesis: review of the literature

Cancer Invest. 2008 Feb;26(1):104-8. doi: 10.1080/07357900701662509.

Abstract

Tumoral angiogenesis is necessary for the growth of neoplasms and the production of metastasis. The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a homodimeric heparin-binding glycoprotein that binds to VEGF-receptors and can induce endothelial cell mitosis, invasion, and eventually capillary tube formation. Bevacizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody against VEGF, inhibits tumoral angiogenesis and may also improve the delivery of chemotherapy to the tumor mass. Some new antiangiogenic agents, called multi-kinase inhibitors (sorafenib and sunitinib), have also activity against other receptors, such as epidermal growth factor-receptor or platelet-derived growth factor-receptor. A new schedule of treatment (metronomic chemotherapy) also has antiangiogenic activity.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Animals
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • ErbB Receptors / antagonists & inhibitors
  • ErbB Receptors / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / blood supply*
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / physiopathology*
  • Receptors, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Receptors, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor / drug effects

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors
  • ErbB Receptors
  • Receptors, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor