Angiogenesis inhibition plus chemotherapy for metastatic hormone refractory prostate cancer: History and rationale

Angiogenesis inhibition with bevacizumab and other agents of this class are showing significant activity in a variety of cancers. In prostate cancer, the single agent activity has been low, but the addition of these agents to chemotherapy may be the area in which they provide their greatest clinical benefit. An ongoing study conducted by the Cancer and Leukemia Group B will test this approach in men with metastatic hormone refractory prostate cancer. Future studies may test the efficacy of anti-angiogenic strategies in earlier stage disease as well as in combination with other approaches. This review will highlight the clinical experience to date with angiogenesis inhibitors in prostate cancer and the ongoing studies.