In order to grow, tumors need a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients. Without a blood supply to provide these, they can only grow to a small size. 'Successful' tumors have a way of making the body form new blood vessels via the process called angiogenesis. Blocking angiogenesis is the goal of many anti-cancer drugs. One method uses antibodies to prevent a growth factor (VEGF) from sending signals through its receptor. Although effective at low concentrations of VEGF, the effectiveness of the antibodies decreases as the concentration of VEGF increases.
A new study has identified new antibodies that work in a different way. The new antibodies prevent the formation of a functional landing pad (receptor) for VEGF. Importantly, this new antibody works with the older drugs to make them work better.
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