Many tumor types (including colorectal cancer, CRC) depend on angiogenesis, the formation of blood vessels from pre-existing vasculature, for their malignant growth. CRC is one of the most common and deadly cancers world-wide. Anti-angiogenic therapy (AAT) is a widely used and highly promising anti-cancer approach that is, however, challenged by low response rates, inadequate efficacy and resistance. Currently, there is no tool available to select the patients most likely to benefit from AAT or to monitor response to therapy.
In ANGIO-IMAGE, the Dutch university spin-off company AngioTarget has assessed the technological, practical and economic viability of ANGIO-tracer to stratify CRC patients prior to AAT. Proper ANGIO-tracer implementation can save 45,000 stage II/III CRC patients from undertreatment and 60,000 stage IV patients from overtreatment in Europe each year. This will ensure optimal treatment for responders, while preventing ineffective administration of costly drugs to non-responders. A feasibility study has re-defined and optimised the commercial, IP and development strategies. The results warrant the development of ANGIO-tracer for CRC patients.