Targeting VEGF in lung cancer

INTRODUCTION: VEGF promotes tumor angiogenesis and is an important target in various malignancies, including NSCLC. AREAS COVERED: Here, the authors review the data that led to the approval of bevacizumab, a monoclonal antibody against VEGF, in the treatment of lung cancer. The authors also review the key results from a number of Phase II and Phase III trials involving other anti-angiogenic agents being studied in NSCLC, including small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors against the VEGF-receptor and vascular-disrupting agents (VDAs). EXPERT OPINION: Results from ongoing studies and the identification of reliable biomarkers remain critical goals in understanding the exact role of these anti-angiogenic agents in the treatment paradigm of NSCLC.