Article Details - Overview
New Frontiers in Antiangiogenic Therapy: Recent Data on Malignant Gliomas and Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma
Angiogenesis in Oncology
Release Date: July 18, 2009
Expiration Date: July 18, 2010
Publication Overview
Authors
Jeremy N. Rich, MD; Roberto Pili, MD; Sith Sathornsumetee, MD
Overview and Purpose
Tumor angiogenesis, which is mediated primarily by the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway, plays a key role in solid tumor development. Antiangiogenic approaches have demonstrated benefit in multiple tumor types, including colorectal cancer, non–small-cell lung cancer, breast cancer, and renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Malignant gliomas, which include anaplastic gliomas and glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), are the most common primary brain tumors in adults. Standard treatment of GBM includes surgery followed by an oral alkylating agent both concurrently with radiation therapy and subsequently as adjuvant therapy. Because malignant gliomas are highly angiogenic, antiangiogenic agents have been under intense investigation in these tumors. Recently, an anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody (MoAb) demonstrated encouraging activity as monotherapy and in combination with a topoisomerase I inhibitor in patients with recurrent malignant gliomas. The anti-VEGF MoAb is also being examined as part of the initial treatment regimen for newly diagnosed GBM. Novel agents targeting VEGF and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) targeting VEGF receptors (VEGFRs) are being actively studied in both newly diagnosed and recurrent malignant gliomas.
The incorporation of agents targeting angiogenesis, including multitargeted TKIs and mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors, into therapy for advanced RCC has dramatically improved patient outcomes. Additional antiangiogenic agents, such as more selective TKIs, a MoAb to VEGF, and a VEGFR fusion protein, are undergoing evaluation for the treatment of advanced RCC and could further expand the therapeutic armamentarium. Potential therapeutic strategies that incorporate these agents and other novel approaches to targeting angiogenic signaling are being explored in an effort to prevent or overcome resistance to current therapies for RCC.
The purpose of this activity is to update physicians on the latest developments in antiangiogenic therapies for malignant gliomas and metastatic RCC.
Target Audience
This educational activity is intended for medical oncologists involved in the care of patients with solid tumors. No specific skills or knowledge other than a basic training in oncology is required for successful participation in this activity.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this educational activity, you should be able to:
- Discuss clinical data on the use of antiangiogenic agents in the treatment of recurrent malignant gliomas
- Apply current algorithms for the treatment of RCC, including optimization of antiangiogenic therapies and incorporation of the latest data on the treatment of newly diagnosed disease
- Evaluate strategies to overcome resistance to antiangiogenic agents in advanced/metastatic RCC
Instructions for Participation
- Read the following information before entering the educational activity.
- Complete the Pretest.
- Study the educational activity.
- Complete the Posttest.
- Answer the evaluation questions.
- After completion of the Pretest and successful completion of the Posttest and evaluation, you will receive your certificate online.
You will be permitted 2 attempts to successfully complete the Posttest.
The tests and evaluation must be completed by July 18, 2010, in order for you to receive your certificate.
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