Angiogenesis-related molecular targets in esophageal cancer.

INTRODUCTION: Angiogenesis has become an appealing target in cancer therapy due to its fundamental role in cancer growth and metastasis. A number of angiogenesis-related molecules are under investigation, with some already in clinical practice with various results. The effort to present and discuss the current status of the research on the angiogenesis-related molecular targets will lead to improved clinical strategies and outcomes for patients with esophageal cancer (EC). AREAS COVERED: This review summarizes the recent advances in angiogenesis-related targets in EC, and also analyzes the clinical and therapeutic applications they provide. We envisage future developments towards the anti-angiogenic strategy of molecular targets and their potential applications to cancer treatment. EXPERT OPINION: Angiogenesis-related targets can be used as a useful therapeutic tool for EC. More investigations should be performed to promote the success of anti-angiogenic therapy in clinical trials.