Investigational agents for treatment of AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma

Expert Opin Investig Drugs. 2007 Apr;16(4):495-504. doi: 10.1517/13543784.16.4.495.

Abstract

AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) is a neoplasm that results from the co-infection of HIV and KS herpesvirus/human herpesvirus-8 (KSHV/HHV8). Targeting HIV with highly active antiretroviral therapy has attenuated the natural history of this disease. Recent discoveries have elucidated the role of multiple signaling pathways in the pathogenesis of AIDS-related KS. In particular, KSHV/HHV8-specific gene products, including a G-protein-coupled receptor (vGPCR) and a homolog of human IL-6 (vIL-6), have been implicated in the development of tumorigenesis and angiogenesis. In addition, KSHV/HHV8 can modulate cellular growth and angiogenic pathways to augment malignant transformation and potentiate growth. This article discusses the main signaling pathways that are implicated in the pathogenesis of AIDS-related KS, reviews recently completed clinical trials and anticipates the future direction of molecularly targeted agents in this disease.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / drug therapy*
  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / genetics
  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Antiviral Agents / chemistry
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Drugs, Investigational / chemistry
  • Drugs, Investigational / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Sarcoma, Kaposi / drug therapy*
  • Sarcoma, Kaposi / genetics
  • Sarcoma, Kaposi / metabolism

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Drugs, Investigational