The critical role of angiogenesis during tumor growth was first hypothesized over 30 years ago. Since then, advances in our understanding of this multi-step process have led to the characterization of specific genes that are up-regulated or down-regulated in the normal cells vs malignant cells. Aberrant angiogenic stimulation by these genes results in vascularization of tumors that is different from normal vasculature, allowing for the development of therapeutic agents to specifically target tumor vasculature. At recent count, there are currently more than 60 anti-angiogenic agents in clinical development for a variety of malignancies. These agents offer an attractive alternative to traditional therapies due in part to their ability to target a single vessel. This often results in the death of numerous tumor cells at once, lower mutation rate typical of endothelial vascular cells; limited associated toxicities in adults due to the low rate of normal angiogenesis; and their ability to control tumor growth independently of tumor-cell type, thus increasing their effectiveness in multiple malignancies. Continued advances in antiangiogenic therapies have the potential to significantly alter the cancer treatment landscape. This annual state-of-the-art symposium is designed to continue dialogue and interaction between research and clinical investigators by reviewing the current scientific understanding of vascular biology and angiogenesis. In addition, this conference provides a forum for presenting the most current preclinical and clinical data on emerging anti-angiogenic agents/regimens. Strategies that inhibit angiogenesis in colorectal cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, ovarian cancer, leukemias and genitourinary tumors will be discussed.

After completing this activity, participants should be better able to:
                  • Discuss the concept of angiogenesis and its relevance to the treatment of cancer
                  • Describe the components of anti-angiogenic signaling that may be targets for inhibition
                  • Evaluate clinical trials examining experimental anti-angiogenic agents as monotherapy or in
                    combination with other therapeutic modalities
                  • Review safety and efficacy results from recent clinical trials of anti-angiogenic agents

This activity has been designed for medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and research scientists who have an interest in the biology, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer, as well as for those who diagnose and treat patients with such nonmalignant vascular diseases as arthritis and retinal neovascularization.

SciMed is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians. SciMed is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education as a provider of continuing pharmacy education.

SciMed designates this educational activity for a maximum of 17 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. SciMed designates this educational activity (Universal Program Number 440-000-06-005-L01) for 17.00 contact hour(s) (1.700 CEUs). No partial credit will be awarded.

All faculty participating in continuing education activities sponsored by SciMed are required to disclose to the audience any real or apparent commercial financial affiliations related to the content of their presentations and materials.

SciMed assesses conflicts of interest with its faculty and all individuals who are in a position to control the content of CME activities. All relevant conflicts of interest that are identified are resolved by SciMed to ensure fair balance and scientific objectivity.

Complete Disclosure and Resolution of Conflicts of Interest information will be provided at the symposium.

All SciMed personnel involved in the development of content for this activity have no significant conflicts to report.

SciMed fully intends to comply with the legal requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If any participant of this symposium needs special accommodations, please submit a written request at least 1 month prior to the symposium.

There are no fees for participating and receiving CME/CE credit for this activity. Successful completion of this CME/CE activity includes the following:
                  • Attend/participate in the entire educational activity and review the course materials
                  • Complete the activity evaluation, which includes a request for credit section
                  • Return the completed forms to the registration desk
                  • Participants will be mailed a certificate or statement of credit within 4-6 weeks


The opinions or views expressed in this CME/CE activity are those of the presenters and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or recommendations of SciMed or the commercial supporters. Participants should critically appraise the information presented and are encouraged to consult appropriate resources for information surrounding any product or device mentioned.