Antibody-based therapies for colorectal cancer.

The recent successful development of novel monoclonal antibodies that target key components of biologic pathways has expanded the armamentarium of treatment options for patients with colorectal cancer. Two targets in particular--the process of new blood vessel development, or angiogenesis, and the epidermal growth factor receptor and its signaling pathway--are exploited by the newest monoclonal antibodies that are available for use in colorectal cancer patients. This clinical review focuses on the defining role of the two most clinically advanced novel agents, bevacizumab (Avastin; Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, http://www.gene.com) and cetuximab (Erbitux; ImClone Systems, Inc., New York, http://www.imclone.com), in colorectal cancer.