Prof. Robert Jeraj: Interplay between molecular imaging and tumor modeling of anti-angiogenic therapies
Povzetek:
Interplay between molecular imaging and tumor modeling of anti-angiogenic therapies
Prof. Robert Jeraj, Department of Medical Phyisics, University of Wisconsin, Madison & FMF UL
Angiogenesis is one of the key tumor hallmarks. Use of anti-angiogenic therapies, particularly those targeting the VEGF pathway, is a common treatment strategy. However, clinical outcomes have been rather disappointing. One of the key phenomena in response to anti-angiogenic therapies is the so-called "angiogenic flare", rapid rebound of tumors after therapy cessation or during treatment breaks. In addition, prolonged exposure to anti-angiogenic agents leads to build-up of treatment resistance. A series of clinical trials using advanced molecular imaging techniques will be presented that has helped explaining the observed angiogenic flare, giving insights into potential treatment strategies. Furthermore, accompanying tumor modeling based on patient-specific molecular imaging input has been used to investigate potential mechanisms leading to treatment failures. Interplay between molecular imaging-driven clinical trials and tumor modeling will be presented as a role-model for better understanding of clinically observed phenomena and as a guiding tools to guide more successful future treatment strategies.
