Abstract IA03: Combinatorial targeting of endothelial growth factor pathways

Abstract

Abstract Solid tumors require blood vessels for growth and dissemination, and use lymphatic vessels as additional conduits for metastatic spread. The identification of growth factor receptor pathways regulating angiogenesis has led to clinical approval of the first anti-angiogenic molecules targeted against the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-VEGFR-2 pathway. However, in many cases resistance to anti-VEGF-VEGFR therapy occurs, and thus far the clinical benefit has been limited to only modest improvements in overall survival. Therefore, novel treatment modalities are required. I will discuss the other members of the VEGF-VEGFR family, as well as the angiopoietin growth factors and their Tie2 receptor as targets for the inhibition of tumor angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis and metastasis. Our recent studies reveal that also the orphan receptor Tie1 is crucial for tumor angiogenesis and growth, but not for steady-state function of the vasculature. Combinatorial targeting of multiple vascular growth factor pathways shows promise for improving the efficacy of anti-angiogenic tumor therapy. Citation Format: Kari K. Alitalo. Combinatorial targeting of endothelial growth factor pathways. [abstract]. In: Abstracts: AACR Special Conference on Cellular Heterogeneity in the Tumor Microenvironment; 2014 Feb 26-Mar 1; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(1 Suppl):Abstract nr IA03. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.CHTME14-IA03