The switch in tumors from the quiescent state to malignancy is signaled by the commencement of the angiogenesis process. Tumors need an extensive network of capillaries to provide nutrients and oxygen. Solid tumors will not grow beyond 2 millimeters (about 1/4 inch — the size of a BB) without new blood vessels. Malignancy and invasion are angiogenesis dependent.Since the early 1970s when Dr. Folkman first identified the angiogenesis process and its therapeutic implications, research in this area continued mainly in the laboratory. Only in the last ten years has research moved out of the lab and into the clinic. In 1989, the first clinical trial of an angiogenesis inhibitor began for a life-threatening, non-cancerous blood tumor.In the last 10 years, researchers have been able to refine their work with the discovery and identification of proteins found in the blood that act an angiogenesis inhibitors.
Top left: Implanted cancer cells glow with green fluorescence protein. Click on links below to learn more. Quick Study- “Cancer research focuses on starving tumors of their blood supply” “Understanding Angiogenesis: A Key to New Cancer Treatments” For more in-depth information see below- “Cancer Warrior” This is a Nova program offered in Quicktime and RealVideo formats. The eight-chapter program covers Dr. Judah Folkman’s revolutionary cancer research, the concept of starving cancer, angiogenesis, looking for inhibitors, experimental drugs and clinical trials. “Fighting Cancer by Attacking Its Blood Supply” “Angiogenesis and Cancer Control: From Concept to Therapeutic Trial” http://www.med.unibs.it/~airc “Tumor angiogenesis: past, present and the near future” |