Tuesday September 25, 2012 14:00 - 14:30 @ Auditorium 

Controlling angiogenesis via endothelial metabolism

Abstract:

Angiogenesis, the growth of new blood vessels, plays a crucial role in numerous diseases, including cancer. Anti-angiogenesis therapies have been developed to deprive the tumor of nutrients. Clinically approved anti-angiogenic drugs offered prolonged survival to numerous cancer patients. However, the success of anti-angiogenic VEGF-targeted therapy is limited in certain cases by intrinsic refractoriness and acquired resistance. New strategies are needed to block tumor angiogenesis via alternative mechanisms.

We are therefore exploring whether targeting endothelial metabolism can be a possible alternative therapeutic strategy. Data will be presented on how Dll4/Notch signaling regulates endothelial metabolism. We will also discuss if  manipulating particular pathways of endothelial metabolism can be a target for anti-angiogenic therapy.