Tumour vasculature targeting agents in hybrid/conjugate drugs

Angiogenesis. 2013 Jul;16(3):503-24. doi: 10.1007/s10456-013-9347-8. Epub 2013 Mar 31.

Abstract

Tumour vasculature targeting has been a very active area of cancer drug discovery over the last decade. Growth of solid tumours beyond a certain point requires a sufficient blood supply in order for them to develop and metastasise. While novel anti-angiogenic and vascular disrupting agents represent an important contribution to the armoury of anti-cancer agents they nevertheless usually require combination with standard cytotoxic therapy in order to demonstrate positive clinical outcomes. In line with this consensus, a new concept has arisen, namely the design of functional hybrids where at least one component of the design targets a tumour angiogenic/vasculature pathway. This review will outline examples of such hybrid/conjugate-based approaches. Emphasis will be placed on their preclinical evaluation with particular focus on the RGD/NGR-conjugates, heparin-related hybrids and antibody-drug conjugates. In conclusion, the benefits and shortcomings of hybrids under development will be discussed in the context of future directions and applications.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / chemistry
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / pharmacology*
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use
  • Drug Design*
  • Drug Evaluation, Preclinical / methods
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological
  • Molecular Structure
  • Neoplasms / blood supply*
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors