Olaratumab: PDGFR-α inhibition as a novel tool in the treatment of advanced soft tissue sarcomas

Crit Rev Oncol Hematol. 2017 Oct:118:1-6. doi: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2017.06.006. Epub 2017 Jul 15.

Abstract

Advanced soft tissue sarcomas are aggressive cancers with limited therapeutic options. Recently, inhibition of platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR)-α by the monoclonal antibody olaratumab showed promising clinical activity. If confirmed, this would be one of the first examples of targeted therapy effective in advanced soft tissue sarcomas therapy independently of the histologic subtype. Here, we reviewed the biology of the PDGF/PDGFR axis, particularly focusing on its role in cancer, and then we discussed on the effects of PDGFR-α inhibition in the therapy of advanced soft tissue sarcomas.

Keywords: Doxorubicin; Olaratumab; PDGFR-α; Soft tissue sarcomas.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / adverse effects
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / pharmacokinetics
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Doxorubicin / administration & dosage
  • Humans
  • Receptor, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor alpha / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Sarcoma / drug therapy*
  • Sarcoma / mortality

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Doxorubicin
  • Receptor, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor alpha
  • olaratumab