We are using high-throughput approaches to identify genes that modify sensitivity to angiogenesis inhibitors, the aim being to identify new targets for anti-angiogenic therapy.

Despite having dramatic effects in pre-clinical models, angiogenesis inhibitors have proven less effective in treating human tumours, including breast cancer. It is not currently understood why some cancers respond better to anti-angiogenic therapy than others. We are using high-throughput screens to identify genes involved in sensitivity to angiogenesis inhibitors. We will then proceed to validate these genes as candidate drug targets. The goal of this research is to design novel anti-angiogenic therapies in which a conventional angiogenesis inhibitor is combined with a second drug that sensitises the tumour to the effects of anti-angiogenic therapy.