Adults with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most common primary brain tumor, have an unacceptably poor outcome with conventional
cytotoxic therapies. Malignant gliomas are remarkably angiogenic, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is the dominant
pro-angiogenic factor. Recent clinical trials targeting VEGF signaling have achieved unprecedented rates of durable radiographic
and clinical response, while also confirming adequate safety among recurrent malignant glioma patients. An array of additional
clinical trials evaluating anti-angiogenic strategies are underway for both recurrent and newly diagnosed malignant glioma
patients. Promising results of these approaches suggest that the treatment of GBM may represent an emerging paradigm of anti-angiogenic
therapy.
Supported by National Institutes of Health Grant nos. 1-P50-CA108786-01, NS20023, and CA11898 and by Grant no. MO1 RR 30 through
the General Clinical Research Centers Program, National Center for Research Resources, National Institutes of Health.