[Study on the tumor microenvironment and tumor vascular normalization in integrative treatment of tumor by Chinese medicine and western medicine]

Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 2011 Aug;31(8):1127-31.
[Article in Chinese]

Abstract

Vascular abnormalities inside tumors are important factors resulting in abnormal tumor microenvironment. Microenvironment was closely correlated with the malignant degrees, metastasis, and recurrence of tumors. Besides, the acid environment, oxygen deficiency, and other factors it induced may severely affect the efficacies of routine therapies, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Anti-angiogenesis treatment drugs targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) not only antagonize the angiogenesis of tumor vessels, but also promote the vascular normalization inside tumors to some extent, thus reducing interstitial hypertension, improving blood flow inside tumors, and enhancing therapeutic efficacies. Previous clinical and experimental studies have proved that many Chinese herbs show enhancing effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy in comprehensive treatment of chemotherapy and radiotherapy combination. Meanwhile, recent studies have also proved that many Chinese herbs could fight against tumor vascular angiogenesis, lower serum VEGF concentration, and inhibit expressions of VEGF. Therefore, studying Chinese herbs' mechanisms of anti-tumor from promoting vascular normalization will open up a brand new field for seeking a cut-in point for Chinese medicine therapy in the comprehensive treatment, optimizing a treatment protocols, and further clarifying the roles of Chinese medicine in the comprehensive treatment.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Integrative Medicine*
  • Medicine, Chinese Traditional
  • Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / therapy
  • Tumor Microenvironment*
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / metabolism

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A