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Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery
Published in: Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery 3/2007

01-05-2007 | New Surgical Horizons

Angiogenesis in cancer: molecular mechanisms, clinical impact

Authors: M. E. Eichhorn, A. Kleespies, M. K. Angele, K.-W. Jauch, C. J. Bruns

Published in: Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery | Issue 3/2007

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Abstract

Background

Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels from the endothelium of the existing vasculature, is fundamental in tumor growth, progression, and metastasis. Inhibiting tumor angiogenesis is a promising strategy for treatment of cancer and has been successfully transferred from preclinical to clinical application in recent years. Whereas conventional therapeutic approaches, e.g. chemotherapy and radiation, are focussing on tumor cells, antiangiogenic therapy is directed against the tumor supplying blood vessels.

Materials and methods

This review will summarize important molecular mechanisms of tumor angiogenesis and advances in the design of antiangiogenic drugs. Furthermore, clinical implications of antiangiogenic therapy in surgical oncology will be discussed.

Results

First antiangiogenic drugs have been approved for treatment of advanced solid tumors in several countries. Leading antiangiogenic drugs are designed to inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor-mediated tumor angiogenesis. Combining antiangiogenic agents with conventional chemotherapy or radiation is currently investigated clinically with great emphasis to realize a multimodal tumor therapy, targeting both the tumor cell and tumor vascular compartment.

Conclusion

Antiangiogenic tumor therapy represents a promising strategy for treatment of cancer and will most likely exhibit its clinical potential in combination with established standard tumor therapies in the future.
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Metadata
Title
Angiogenesis in cancer: molecular mechanisms, clinical impact
Authors
M. E. Eichhorn
A. Kleespies
M. K. Angele
K.-W. Jauch
C. J. Bruns
Publication date
01-05-2007
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery / Issue 3/2007
Print ISSN: 1435-2443
Electronic ISSN: 1435-2451
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00423-007-0150-0

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