Targeting Tumorangiogenesis in Lung Cancer by Suppression of VEGF and its Receptor - Results from Clinical Trials and Novel Experimental Approaches

Tumor vascularisation, the formation of blood vessels is a central process to allow tumor growth beyond limited sizes and to facilitate metastasis formation. Angiogenesis is regulated by a balance of stimulatory and inhibitory factors. Angiogenic factors have been the focus of intense research since the prospects of new therapeutic approaches seemed enormous. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has emerged as the most potent and most specific growth factor for endothelial cells and therefore a relevant target for novel anticancer therapy. A wide range of agents have been designed for their ability to interfere the VEGF signalling pathway. In addition, several drugs are currently in advanced clinical development. This review describes the current experimental strategies to inhibit VEGF and will also summarize and discuss the results of recent clinical trials involving anti-VEGF compounds either as standalone therapy or in combination with chemotherapy in lung cancer.