Growth factors and angiogenesis

Malignant gliomas continue to be a difficult treatment problem. Despite very aggressive radiation therapy and chemotherapy, long-term survivors are rare. Inhibition of angiogenesis represents an exciting new approach. Experimental evidence suggests that malignant gliomas are dependent on angiogenesis and that inhibition of this process results in decreased tumour growth and prolonged survival. As the mechanisms responsible for glioma- induced angiogenesis are better understood, such as with VEGF, more specific treatments strategies will be developed. Effective delivery of these anti- angiogenic treatments to gliomas and the tumour vasculature has the potential to result in improved tumour control and longer survivals.