Angiogenesis in lymphoproliferative disorders: a therapeutic target?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Several recent studies have focused on the role of angiogenesis in hematologic malignancies. This review specifically discusses angiogenesis in lymphoproliferative disorders, with a special emphasis on the most recent publications. The novel therapeutic strategies arising from advances in this field are reviewed, and the potential pitfalls of these therapies are also discussed.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent publications confirm that angiogenesis and angiogenic factors are increased in lymphoproliferative disorders. In addition, several studies have demonstrated that angiogenesis is directly involved in the pathogenesis of these disorders.

SUMMARY

Knowledge of angiogenesis in lymphoproliferative disorders has increased substantially in the past few years. Angiogenic factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor have been shown to be important in the progression or maintenance of lymphoproliferative disorders. Targeting of these factors is therefore a promising new therapeutic approach. Hematopoietic angiogenesis is a nascent field, however, and its concepts are still evolving. A systematic approach to understanding and characterizing the angiogenic phenotype is required for the design of efficacious antiangiogenic therapeutic regimens.