Angiogenesis in lymphoproliferative disorders

In this review, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying angiogenesis in lymphoproliferative disorders are summarized, alongside with possible therapeutic applications. Although most of the initial studies in angiogenesis were done on solid tumors, recent data demonstrate the importance of angiogenesis in hematological malignancies including leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. Expression of angiogenic polypeptides vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) correlate with clinical characteristics in leukemia and lymphoma, and their serum concentrations serve as predictors of poor prognosis. Antiangiogenic drugs, including thalidomide, arsenic trioxide, endostatin, vasostatin, and neutralizing antibodies to VEGF receptors, used alone or in combination with established chemo- or immunotherapy regimens, constitute a promising approach for the treatment of lymphoproliferative disorders. Copyright (C) 2001 S. Karger AG, Basel.