Anti-angiogenic Cancer Therapy

Given that solid tumors account for more than 85 percent of cancer mortality, and whereas tumor growth and metastasis are dependent on blood vessels, it makes sense that the targeting of tumor angiogenesis has evolved into one of the most widely pursued therapeutic strategies. However, as of yet, no antiangiogenic agent used as a monotherapy has demonstrated a survival benefit in a randomized Phase III trial. The combination of bevacizumab, the first FDA approved angiogenesis inhibitor, with cytotoxic regimens has led to survival benefits in cancer patients. This has raised important questions about the complexities inherent in the clinical application of angiogenesis inhibitors. Compiles the results of four decades of progress Integrating fundamental concepts with therapeutic strategies, Anti-Angiogenic Cancer Therapy promotes the idea that an understanding of the molecular and cellular regulation of angiogenesis will lead to optimal therapeutic strategies and positive clinical results. It brings together contributions from leading researchers in the field to provide the most authoritative and encyclopedic volume available on this subject. Divided into four parts, the chapters are organized to allow readers easy access to the fundamental concepts of angiogenesis and information on the complexities associated with targeting angiogenesis for specific types of cancer. Part I introduces a series of concepts regarding the role of angiogenesis in cancer, including strategies to prolong the nonangiogenic dormant state of human tumors, molecular mechanisms and cellular regulation of angiogenesis in solid tumors and hematologic malignancies, and the regulation of angiogenesis by the tumor microenvironment. Part II covers specific molecular targets for inhibiting angiogenesis in cancer therapy. Part III discusses clinical trial design and translational research approaches essential for identifying and developing effective angiogenesis inhibitors. Part IV presents state-of-the-art discussions outlining the current understanding of the molecular biology of each cancer type followed by discussions that examine strategies for targeting angiogenesis in specific cancers. This volume celebrates the remarkable progress made in the four decades since it was first discovered that tumors are angiogenesis-dependent, and more importantly, it provides a clear indication of the complex biology that needs further investigation to realize the possibilities envisioned for this beneficial therapeutic modality.Davis, Darren W. is the author of 'Anti-angiogenic Cancer Therapy ', published 2007 under ISBN 9780849327995 and ISBN 0849327997.