ResearchVEGF
Genentech Biooncology
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Continuous effects on VEGF inhibition

Proposed mechanism of action of anti-VEGF agents

VEGF expression in NSCLC
  1. Regression of existing microvasculature7,10-12
  2. "Normalization" of surviving mature vasculature7,10,13
  3. Inhibition of vessel growth and neovascularization8,9,12
The mechanism of action of anti-VEGF agents has been elucidated in preclinical models. Its clinical significance is unknown.

Based on preclinical models, it has been proposed that anti-VEGF agents exert continuous antivascular effects throughout tumor development. One of the most rapid of these proposed effects is regression of existing tumor vessels. Direct and rapid changes observed with anti-VEGF agents include a significant reduction in microvascular density.7,10-12 While some existing microvasculature may be regressed, other surviving mature vasculature may become "normalized."7,10,13 This reversal of structural and functional abnormalities may improve the vasculature's capacity for drug delivery.14,15 In addition to these more rapid effects, anti-VEGF agents may also result in ongoing inhibition of both new and recurrent tumor vessel growth.8,9,12 It has been proposed that these effects inhibit tumor growth and metastasis and improve the tumor vasculature's capacity for effective delivery of antitumor compounds.13-16

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Versatility to address changing tumor biology

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