Introduction: Liver cancer, predominantly hepatocellular carcinoma, represents a major cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Angiogenesis, driven by a complex interplay of pro-angiogenic and anti-angiogenic factors, plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of liver cancer. The dysregulation of angiogenesis contributes to tumor growth, vascular invasion, and distant metastasis. Consequently, understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying angiogenesis in liver cancer is crucial for the development of novel therapeutic approaches. . Understanding the underlying mechanisms of angiogenesis in liver cancer is essential for the development of effective therapeutic strategies. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms involved in angiogenesis in liver cancer and highlight the therapeutic perspectives targeting angiogenesis in liver cancer treatment.
Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted using electronic databases such as PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science to identify relevant studies investigating angiogenesis in liver cancer. The search strategy included keywords such as "angiogenesis," "liver cancer," "hepatocellular carcinoma," and "therapeutic strategies." Selected studies were thoroughly reviewed and analyzed to elucidate the mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets associated with angiogenesis in liver cancer.
Results: The results section presents the key findings related to the mechanisms driving angiogenesis in liver cancer. Several angiogenic factors, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and fibroblast growth factor (FGF), contribute to the formation of new blood vessels in liver tumors. The activation of signaling pathways such as the VEGF receptor pathway, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, and the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway regulates angiogenesis in liver cancer. Moreover, the role of tumor microenvironment components, including immune cells and hepatic stellate cells, in promoting angiogenesis is discussed. Additionally, the section highlights potential therapeutic strategies targeting angiogenesis in liver cancer, such as anti-angiogenic agents, multi-kinase inhibitors, and immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Conclusion: Angiogenesis plays a critical role in liver cancer development and progression. Understanding the complex molecular mechanisms involved in angiogenesis provides valuable insights into potential therapeutic targets. Targeting angiogenesis has emerged as a promising strategy for liver cancer treatment, with anti-angiogenic agents and other targeted therapies showing promise in preclinical and clinical studies. However, further research and clinical trials are necessary to optimize these therapeutic approaches and improve patient outcomes in liver cancer.