Targeting fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) pathway in renal cell carcinoma

Fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) pathway is involved in driving vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-independent tumor angiogenesis, as a compensatory mechanism to escape VEGF-targeted therapies. Therefore, targeting FGF/FGFR axis seems to be a promising strategy in order to inhibit tumor angiogenesis and reduce resistance to VEGF receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitors. This editorial is focused on the role of FGF/FGFR pathway in renal cell carcinoma and on the ongoing trials of emerging agents targeting this axis.