Work

Rationally Combining Anti-VEGF Therapy with Checkpoint Inhibitors in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Year: 2016

Type: article

Abstract: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a fatal disease with rising incidence in the world. For advanced HCC, sorafenib, a multikinase inhibitor, is the only systemic therapy with proven survival benefits. Sorafenib is a pan-VEGF receptor inhibitor, and thus many studies have focused its antivascular effects. But VEGF also acts as an immunosuppressive molecule. VEGF can inhibit maturation of dendritic cells, promote immune suppressive cell infiltration and enhance immune checkpoint molecules expression. On the other hand, potent VEGF inhibition may increase tumor hypoxia, which could hinder antitumor immunity or immunotherapy. Thus, achieving synergy when combining anti-VEGF therapy with immunotherapy may require proper polarization of the tumor microenvironment by dose titration or combination with other immunomodulating agents.

Source: Immunotherapy

DOI: 10.2217/imt.15.126

Authors: Tai Hato, Andrew X Zhu, Dan G Duda

Institutions: Harvard University, Keio University, Massachusetts General Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treatment and Prognosis

Subfield: Hepatology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute