Monoclonal Antibodies Targeting the IL-17/IL-17RA Axis: An Opportunity to Improve the Efficiency of Anti-VEGF Therapy in Fighting Metastatic Colorectal Cancer?

ABSTRACT

Colorectal cancer is a major problem for public health worldwide because of its frequency and its severity. Many efforts have been carried to target the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway, one of the main promoters of pathological angiogenesis. Therapeutic monoclonal antibodies against VEGF have emerged as essential biopharmaceuticals for the advanced stages of the disease, in association with appropriate backbone chemotherapy. Unfortunately, after an initial benefit for the patients, resistance invariably develops. These mechanisms of resistance are largely studied and recent publications indicate that the interleukin (IL)-17/IL-17 receptor (IL-17R)A axis could be a key player in the pathological progression. In this mini review, we present evidence for IL-17A/IL-17RA axis targeting in colorectal cancer to improve efficiency of anti-VEGF therapy and to implement a new therapeutic strategy.