Tumor vascular biomarkers: new opportunities for cancer diagnostics.

Overview

Tumor vasculature varies significantly from its normal counterpart and displays unique markers. Recent technological advancements including immunohistochemistry laser-capture microdissection (immuno-LCM), genome-wide high-throughput screening, and proteomics have uncovered a vast array of vascular bed-specific markers that may provide a platform for discovery of new therapeutics directed against various malignancies. However, an essential step in the translation of these markers to clinical application will be the identification of those biomarkers with the highest diagnostic and therapeutic potential. The aim of the current review is to provide a synopsis of recent advancements in the identification of tumor vasculature biomarkers.