Neuroblastoma and Angiogenesis

Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels in tumors has been extensively studied, which has led to the development of inhibitors of this essential mechanism for tumor growth and formation of metastasis. For more than 10 years, bevacizumab, an antibody against vascular endothelial growth factor, has been administered in several adult treatment protocols and has been approved for several other antiangiogenic drugs by the authorities. Neuroblastoma (NB) has been shown to be highly vascularized and angiogenic compounds have been discussed as potentially successful candidates in the context of introducing new strategies in the treatment of NB. This chapter summarizes the preclinical data available on the mechanism of angiogenesis in NB. Special characteristics of NB, such as NMYC amplification and neuronal differentiation, have been demonstrated to influence angiogenesis. Furthermore, data on lymphatic vessels in NB are also presented. Finally, an update on the ongoing clinical development of angiogenic drugs for NB therapy is given.