Angiogenesis: A promising therapeutic target for ovarian cancer

Abstract: Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death from gynecological cancers. Primary treatment of advanced ovarian cancer (FIGO stages III and IV) until recently consisted of cytoreductive surgery and paclitaxel/carboplatin chemotherapy. The results of two randomized studies, showing prolongation of progression-free survival (PFS) by the addition of the anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody, bevacizumab, led to the approval of this agent for first-line treatment of this disease and indicate that angiogenesis is a promising therapeutic target. Angiogenesis is essential for oncogenesis but also the viability and expansion of ovarian cancer. Specifically, VEGF is involved in the formation of ascites and has a direct effect on ascites tumor cells as well as an immunosuppressive function. Apart from VEGF, PDGF, FGF and angiopoietins present a therapeutic interest. We are reviewing the results of published clinical studies using anti-angiogenic factors in advanced ovarian cancer. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]