BIBF 1120/nintedanib: a new triple angiokinase inhibitor-directed therapy in patients with non-small cell lung cancer

INTRODUCTION: Several new targeted agents with anti-angiogenic properties have been developed recently, including vandetanib, sunitinib, sorafenib, bevacizumab and others. Tumor development, progression, metastasis are strongly linked to angiogenesis. Targeted agents like bevacizumab, a monoclonal antibody which targets VEGF, have been fully developed in several solid tumors. These new agents strongly advocate that targeting angiogenesis is one of the best approaches for cancer therapy. AREAS COVERED: Those agents that target additional pro-angiogenic intracellular signaling pathways beyond VEGF signaling have also the potential to contribute to anticancer therapies. The authors present here nintedanib (BIBF 1120), a triple angiokinase inhibitor. It targets not only VEGFRs, but also FGFR and PDGFR. All the available clinical information regarding Phase I - II trials and the toxicity and efficacy of BIBF 1120 both as single agent and in combination with cytotoxic agents in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is reviewed and discussed here. EXPERT OPINION: Up till now, Phase I and II trials with nintedanib showed an improvement for survival of advanced NSCLC patients. Tolerability profile seems to be acceptable in these clinical trials. However, Phase III trials are mandatory to translate these findings into clinical practice. The research for predictive biomarkers could improve the success of these anti-angiogenic agents.