Intense research in recent years has yielded substantial advances in our understanding of the biology of colon and rectal tumors resulting in the identification of essential biologic targets with therapeutic potential within the tumor and its microenvironment. The incorporation of efficacious targeted agents into traditional treatment algorithms for colorectal cancer (CRC) has made significant inroads in treating the disease, with some agents improving survival even in patients with advanced/metastatic disease. Targeted agents directed against the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) have gained prominence in the last decade. The anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody bevacizumab and the anti-EGFR monoclonal antibodies cetuximab and panitumumab are approved by the United States (US) Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as single agents or in combination with chemotherapy in advanced/metastatic CRC. In addition, multiple other novel angiogenesis inhibitors including a soluble VEGF decoy receptor, multikinase inhibitors, and an anti-VEGF receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) monoclonal antibody are in clinical development. In parallel with the enhanced integration of targeted agents into routine management of metastatic CRC (mCRC), the best combination of agents and selection of appropriate therapy most likely to impact clinical practice are being debated.
This E-Learning activity highlights the different mechanisms of actions and latest clinical data with the various anti-angiogenic strategies under investigation for patients with mCRC and providing insights on clinical utility that might impact routine practice.
