Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is one of the most common cancers in the
United States. Recent achievements in translational research have led to significant
developments in treatment strategies for this malignancy. RCC is a richly vascular
neoplasm. A better understanding of disease biology has helped in the development of
anti-angiogenic therapy. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is the most
important molecular target in the treatment of RCC. Patents have been filed for anti-
VEGF and other molecular pathways involved in the pathogenesis of RCC. This chapter
provides an overview of angiogenesis in RCC, important anti-angiogenic drugs for
treating RCC and some developmental drugs and patents which might shape the
treatment of RCC in future.
Keywords: Angiogenesis, antiangiogenic therapy, axitinib, bevacizumab, mTOR,
patents, pazopanib, renal cell carcinoma, sorafenib, sunitinib, temsirolimus,
VEGF, VHL.