Differentiation of COX-2-dependent and -independent VEGF induction in mouse tumors and human colorectal carcinoma and its association with malignancy and sensitivity to anti-angiogenic therapy Ghent University
PGE2 produced by COX2 promotes tumor vascularization through the induction of angiogenic factors such as VEGF. Analysis of mouse tumor models revealed the induction of VEGF also by COX2-independent pathways. This project intends to validate in human colorectal samples the occurrence of COX2-dependent and -independent VEGF expression, their relevance for prognosis and consequences for angiostatic therapy.