Computational Models of Anti-VEGF Therapies in Prostate Cancer

Abstract

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family of cytokines promotes vascularization, tumorigenesis and metastasis in many cancers. Our goal is to develop computational models that combine mechanistic topological data on the VEGF protein interaction network with gene expression datasets for a large population of prostate cancers. We have assembled databases of prostate cancer gene expression data, and analyzed the data using bioinformatic techniques, identifying key VEGF-based subgroups of prostate cancer plus biomarkers that identify these groups. We have also created new computational models to simulate prostate cancer, based on the individualized gene expression data. These models will be used to simulate therapies that target the pathway. The therapies to be tested include anti-ligands such as bevacizumab but also anti-receptors and small molecules such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors. In this way, we can build on both the successes and the failures of anti-VEGF trials to date in order to develop more effective therapies for prostate cancer. This progress will continue, and we will be able to develop models of therapies including bevacizumab and other drugs, in order to design improved therapeutic approaches (both for individuals and for the population).

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 2013
Accession Number
ADA582842

Entities

People

  • Feilim Mac Gabhann

Organizations

  • Johns Hopkins University

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Angiogenesis
  • Biological Factors
  • Biological Markers
  • Biomedical Research
  • Cancer
  • Clinical Trials
  • Databases
  • Endothelial Cells
  • Factor Analysis
  • Gene Expression
  • Growth Factors
  • Kidney Cancer
  • Neoplasms
  • Prostate
  • Prostate Cancer
  • Proteins
  • Therapy

Fields of Study

  • Biology

Readers

  • Distributed Systems and Data Platform Development
  • Oncology
  • Oncology (Cancer Research).